(The Center Square) – A transitional home dedicated to LGBTQ veterans experiencing homelessness has opened in King County, becoming the first of its kind in the nation.
The “Q’mmunity House” will provide supportive housing to veterans who identify themselves as part of the LGBTQ community. The building will also provide on-site case management and connections to the veteran-serving community
The nonprofit organization Minority Veterans of America will operate the Q’munnity House. The organization was designed to advance equity for underrepresented veterans, including BIPOC, women, LGBTQ+, and religious minority veterans.
“We are grateful to partner with Minority Veterans of America to fill a critical gap in services for those who have served our nation,” King County Executive Dow Constantine said in a news release. “This program ensures LGBTQ+ veterans have a safe place to build long-term stability and community here in King County.”
According to King County Communication Specialist Carley Thompson, Minority Veterans of America received an award of $1.8 million to renovate the building.
Funding stemmed from the Veterans, Seniors, and Human Services Levy, which sets a rate of 10 cents per $1,000 in assessed value. It is estimated to cost approximately $84 per year for a median-priced King County home in 2024.
According to a news release, LGBTQ veterans experience higher rates of homelessness and see more obstacles when accessing homelessness resources.
King County Veterans Administrator Megan Stanley said that, prior to the Q’munnity House, a homeless LGBTQ veteran seeking shelter at the King County Veterans Program lacked “culturally informed housing options tailored to meet their unique needs.”
“This revealed a critical gap in our system that needed to be addressed to ensure all veterans have access to safe and appropriate housing,” Stanley added.
The King County Veterans Program operates within the King County Department of Community and Human Services and convenes regional partners at its Northgate and Tukwila offices.
Minority Veterans of America stressed that the new transitional housing building is not a treatment facility. Staff are not equipped to provide mental or physical health services. The house also does not allow drugs or alcohol on premises.
The organization expects to welcome veterans into the Q’mmunity House in mid-November.
