Expanding Mental Health Services for Unhoused Young Adults in Seattle
Grantee: ROOTS Young Adult Shelter
Timeframe: July 2025 – June 2026 | Amount: $100,000
ROOTS Young Adult Shelter is expanding on-site mental health services for young adults (ages 18–25) experiencing homelessness, with a focus on BIPOC, LGBTQIA+, and youth with histories of foster care, justice involvement, and trauma. Many guests struggle with untreated mental health conditions, including anxiety, depression, PTSD, and substance use disorders, but face significant barriers such as lack of insurance, stigma, and distrust of healthcare systems.
Research shows that 75% of adults with mental illness experience onset by age 25, often linked to adverse childhood experiences that contribute to homelessness. Homeless youth face higher rates of severe mental illness, increased risk behaviors, and exposure to violence. LGBTQIA+ individuals are particularly affected, experiencing double the rates of depression and suicide attempts. Opioid overdoses among youth ages 18–24 are also an increasing concern.
Despite growing need, 40% of Medicaid-enrolled youth in King County receive no services, and there are no contracted mental health or substance use providers in ROOTS’ zip code. To address these gaps, ROOTS is partnering with Ryther, a licensed behavioral health agency, to provide on-site therapeutic services. A dedicated Ryther provider will help guests manage trauma, stress, and emotional regulation, eliminating common barriers like transportation, cost, and stigma.
PHPDA Major Grant funds will support additional clinician time and structured resilience programming, including art therapy, mindfulness workshops, and support groups. Biweekly Mental Health Development Groups will provide sessions focused on emotional regulation, communication skills, and independent living.
To strengthen compassionate crisis response, ROOTS will implement trauma-informed staff training. All staff will complete training in trauma-informed care, de-escalation, and shelter operations to improve staff resilience and response during crises.
ROOTS expects stronger guest-staff relationships, improved mental health outcomes, and increased housing stability, creating a healing-centered shelter environment that fosters lasting impact for unhoused young adults.
ABOUT OUR GRANTEE
“ROOTS Young Adult Shelter is Washington state’s largest overnight shelter specifically for young adults ages 18–25. We provide a safe, welcoming, and affirming space for up to 45 young people each night in the University District of Seattle. Our shelter is low-barrier, meaning you don’t need an ID on your first night, income, or proof of anything to stay with us. In addition to a warm meal and a safe place to sleep, guests can access case management, housing navigation, wellness supports, employment help, and connection to community resources. Our services are open to everyone ages 18-25 experiencing housing instability. “
Major Grant
In-Progress
