To the editor:

The Multi-Service Center supports voting YES on King County Prop. 1: Renewing the Veterans, Seniors and Human Services Levy because it serves our entire community.

With a mission of providing help and hope to our neighbors in need, MSC takes the responsibility of our service to low-income families, veterans, and seniors in South King County seriously. However, we are unable to serve everyone and the need continues to grow. 

The rate and severity of poverty among our veteran population is increasing. Often veterans face barriers to connect with services that could set them on a path towards greater stability, success, and economic independence. Last December, MSC was able to complete construction on its William J. Wood Veterans House, an innovative affordable property which offers 44 units of 1, 2, and 3 bedroom apartments for homeless veterans and their families. Each apartment is furnished and has a subsidy, and services including but not limited to employment assistance, case management, child advocacy, and linkages to health care provided on-site by MSC and by the Department of Veterans Affairs Puget Sound Healthcare System. Without funding received from the King County Veterans and Human Services Levy, this property and its associated services would not exist. 

For just an additional $28 per year for the typical homeowner, Prop. 1 will help bring veterans and others experiencing homelessness in from under bridges and tents and help them find stable economic and housing conditions. This levy is already proven to work—serving 3,000 veterans and families every year with housing, healthcare, and employment resources. Last year alone, the levy helped train and place 128 veterans in jobs who saw an average increase in household income of $27,963.

Prop. 1 even ensures that low-income seniors and 100% service-disabled veterans will receive exemptions on this levy. 

Prop. 1 is endorsed by the King County Veterans Consortium, Outreach and Resource Services for Women Veterans, the local chapter of Stand Down, and The Seattle Times. It is also supported by seniors and human services entities such as AARP of WA, Washington State Senior Citizens’ Lobby, Seattle/King County Coalition on Homelessness, United Way of King County, and more.

When you receive your ballot, join me and vote “Yes” on Prop. 1.

Robin R. Corak

CEO

Multi-Service Center