Chelan-Douglas housing task force opens new grant application process March 31

WENATCHEE — The Chelan-Douglas Homeless Housing Task Force will begin accepting applications for its 2025-2027 grant cycle starting March 31.

The task force, which serves Chelan and Douglas counties, is preparing to distribute approximately $6 million in Consolidated Homeless Grant funds for local homeless housing programs. This represents a significant reduction from the current funding cycle.

Due to the state's budget deficit, the 2025-2027 grant cycle anticipates at least a 20 percent reduction in available funding. The state has emphasized local governments must maintain the level of services and number of beds available in communities.

Applications will be accepted until 5 p.m. on May 2 and must be submitted to Amber Hallberg, Chelan County Community Services Manager. No late applications will be considered. The two-year grants will run from July 1, 2025, to June 30, 2027.

Eligible applicants include registered nonprofits, government agencies, and federally recognized Washington state tribes. The task force has indicated a preference for funding existing programs, though this is not a requirement. All projects must comply with Consolidated Homeless Grant guidelines.

The funding will support administrative and operational costs for various homeless services, including emergency shelters, transitional housing, permanent supportive housing, and rental assistance programs. Limited maintenance costs are also eligible for funding.

The grants are supported by two primary funding sources: the Consolidated Homeless Grant, provided by the Washington State Department of Commerce, and Local Homeless Housing funds generated from document recording fees. The local document recording fee fund supports activities outlined in the region's five-year homeless housing strategic plan.

During the current grant cycle, which concludes June 30, 2025, Chelan and Douglas counties received approximately $8 million in combined funding through these programs.

Applications will be available on the Chelan County website beginning March 31. Interested organizations can direct questions to Amber Hallberg at amber.hallberg@co.chelan.wa.us or 509-667-6881.