Housing & Homelessness Advocacy Day 2008

This year's Housing and Homelessness Advocacy Day was our most successful yet-- thanks to the overwhelming support of our members and friends.

Over 500 advocates for affordable housing and supportive services descended on Olympia on February 14, 2008. After listening to a rousing address from Governor Chris Gregoire, advocates donned red ponchos and marched in formation from the United Churches to the Capitol.

Inside, advocates broke into teams based on legislative district and pulled their Senator and Representatives from floor session to tell them about why affordable housing matters to people in Washington State. The Purple People from SEIU 1199 NW were on hand to direct advocates and provide advocacy advice. At the end of the day, advocates rallied back at United Churches to debrief and provide the Alliance with valuable intelligence from their discussions with legislators.

There is no question that HHAD 2008 had an incredible impact. Thanks to your continuing effort, our state's budget now includes an additional $80 million for resources that will be used to provide the stable homes that our children need to succeed in school and in life. On top of this historic gain in funding, we have a lot of wins in the policy column, too.

We must work to ensure all of this is not just a one-time gain. Become a member of the Alliance, and check back here soon to learn more about Housing and Homelessness Advocacy Day 2009.