Permanent supportive housing combines long-term housing with individualized services to help people achieve and maintain housing stability. It is a proven, cost-effective, and compassionate approach that the Urban League of Metropolitan Seattle uses to support people exiting homelessness.

By permanent, we mean there is no time limit on housing. Some residents stay for a few years before moving on to another permanent home. Others remain long-term, becoming trusted and valued members of the community. Stability looks different for everyone—and permanent housing allows residents to move forward at their own pace.

By supportive, we mean residents are connected to services that help them thrive. Each resident is paired with a dedicated Housing Case Manager who builds a relationship with them, understands their goals, and helps connect them to services tailored to their individual needs.

Permanent supportive housing recognizes that stable housing is the foundation for health, dignity, and opportunity—and that lasting solutions to homelessness begin with a place to call home.

Federal Way is facing a growing affordable housing gap — one that is felt most acutely by households earning at or below 30% of Area Median Income (AMI). As housing costs continue to rise, too many residents are left with few safe or stable options.

By 2044, the city is projected to need 3,795 affordable homes for households earning at or below 80% AMI, including 2,745 homes for those at or below 30% AMI. These numbers reflect more than a shortage of units — they represent individuals and neighbors experiencing prolonged housing instability and chronic homelessness.

The Booker House responds directly to this need. With 86 units of permanent supportive housing, it creates a stable pathway for people exiting chronic homelessness, offering not just housing, but the support necessary to remain housed over time.

While no single development can close the gap alone, The Booker House is part of a broader solution — demonstrating what is possible when communities invest in long-term, compassionate approaches to housing stability in Federal Way.

The Booker House represents the kind of partnership required to address chronic homelessness with both compassion and accountability. Creating lasting solutions takes sustained collaboration —and a shared commitment to doing this work together.

The opening of The Booker House is the result of coordinated efforts among the Urban League of Metropolitan Seattle, King County, the City of Federal Way, service providers, health partners, faith leaders, and community members working toward a common goal.

Homelessness is a challenge that demands shared responsibility. This partnership demonstrates what is possible when communities come together with intention, care, and a focus on long-term impact.

What are you doing to address potential safety issues that neighboring residents and businesses may have?  

• We are committed to Safety, Accountability, and Good Neighbor Commitments. The safety of residents, staff, and neighbors is a core priority at Booker House. The building will operate with 24/7 on-site staffing and residents sign lease agreements that include a code of conduct and a Good Neighbor Agreement.
• Expectations are clear and enforced to support a respectful, stable living environment. When challenges arise, case managers work with residents to identify alternative housing options that may be a better fit. This approach balances compassion with accountability and supports safety for both residents and the surrounding community.