Bellevue is actively engaged in addressing homelessness and housing affordability, recognizing these as critical issues impacting the community. The city provides access to shelter, housing, and supportive services aimed at promoting housing stability. Additionally, Bellevue enforces city codes to ensure the safety and well-being of all residents. The city also supports regional efforts to prevent homelessness and to make it rare, brief, and one-time when it occurs.
Individuals and families in need can seek assistance through various programs, including shelters, safe parking, and food assistance. The city’s homelessness outreach program manager, Nicolas Quijano, is available to provide support and guidance. Bellevue’s comprehensive homelessness services guide offers detailed information on available resources.
Recognizing the multifaceted nature of homelessness, Bellevue acknowledges that a lack of affordable housing is a primary cause. Other contributing factors include low-paying jobs, domestic violence, chronic health problems, substance abuse, and mental health issues. To address these challenges, the city implements fair enforcement of city codes that promote the safety and well-being of all community members.
In response to the growing number of unsheltered individuals on the Eastside, Bellevue has engaged in multiple efforts to address homelessness. The city is committed to serving all residents, including many immigrants and refugees who make their home here. Bellevue’s Mini City Hall serves as a neighborhood service center, extending city services and community connections to Bellevue’s diverse population.
To ensure city funding goes where the need is greatest, the Human Services division of the Parks & Community Services Department conducts an extensive assessment of the human services needs and issues affecting Bellevue’s most vulnerable residents every two years. The 2025 Human Services Needs Update identified substantial gaps across the human services continuum in Bellevue. The city council considered recommendations from the Human Services Commission regarding how the city’s 2027-2028 human services funding should be allocated between three funding sources, totaling approximately $6.5 million per year for human services.
Through these concerted efforts, Bellevue aims to create a supportive environment where all residents have access to stable housing and essential services, fostering a stronger and more inclusive community.