Article and photo by Jeannie Briones
TULALIP, Washington- “Many people come to the shelter with almost nothing. They have no food, no money and inadequate or ill fitting clothing for themselves and their children. The children may have no school supplies. When the weather gets really cold, the children often don’t have hats, gloves or a warm coat. When the residents move out they usually need everything; dishes, silverware, pots and pans, towels, and bedding and may have little or no furniture. The shelter has no storage space, but we often know of people who need donated furniture,” said Homeless Shelter Coordinator, Sandy Tracy.
Tulalip homeless shelter donations have drastically dropped from the past year. Food, clothing, and household items are greatly needed.
Tulalip and other tribal families are provided with temporary shelter at the Tulalip shelter. Some food is provided, based on what they receive from community donations, and depending on their income, some shelter residents may qualify for food vouchers through Tulalip Temporary Assistance for Needy Families.
The homeless shelter relies on community donations to provide residents with their basic needs. The shelter is currently in need of bedding, silverware, dishes, pots and pans, laundry detergent, kids toys, flashlights, school supplies, any food donations, and warm clothing for adults and children.
One of the shelter residents, Gerald Charles, received warm clothing donations from the Tulalip Church of God. The church also provided the shelter with bedding and a food gift card so residents will be able to enjoy a Christmas meal at the shelter.
If you are interested in making a donation, please contact Homeless Shelter Coordinator, Sandy Tracy, at 360-716-4705 or stracy@tulaliptribes-nsn.gov. Tulalip Homeless Shelter is located at2817 Mission Hill Road,Tulalip,WA98271.
Jeannie Briones: 360-716-4188; jbriones@tulalipbribes-nsn.gov