Youth & Young Adult Emergency Shelter

Coming 2024

While we can provide young people in Yakima basic necessities, education, employment and housing supports as well as behavioral health counseling, we currently cannot provide the one truly essential service: a year-round emergency shelter for those experiencing unsheltered, unsafe or unhealthy living conditions.

In 2024, we are changing that.

This building will offer 8 beds to youth (ages 13-17) and 10 beds to young adults (ages 18-24). This is a shelter where young people can stay in a safe place, as they gain access to support for education, employment, mental health, substance use, etc. while being supported by case management and behavioral health staff. They will have their own bedroom with access to shared bathrooms, kitchen and laundry facilities. Staff will be there to support young people 24 hours a day.

DESCRIPTIONCOST% of TOTAL
Land Acquisition$310,0005%
Construction$3,314,00053%
Soft Costs for Development$798,67913%
Financing Fees$97,0002%

Frequently Asked Questions

We gathered the answers to some popular questions below. If you can’t find your question below feel free to contact us, and we’ll be happy to help.

Will the shelter be gated?

Yes. There will be a privacy gate surrounding the majority of the building’s property. Although the street-facing fence will not have locks on the gate, the building itself will be locked at all times.

Will youth staying at the shelter go through a background check?

We plan to follow all regulations that allow this shelter to offer licensed beds for youth and young adults experiencing homelessness.

How will Rod’s House be a good neighbor?

  • Shelter will be staffed 24/7
  • Grounds will provide adequate lighting for increased safety
  • Grounds will include landscaping to blend into the residential area
  • Shelter will require guests to adhere to a curfew and drug and alcohol use will not be permitted on the premises
  • Case managers will help guests find education and employment resources

Will there be rules for youth at the shelter?

Yes. There will be a curfew established for both wings of the building, as well guidelines set for general noise compliance, behavioral expectations, and minimum bed night usage.

How can I submit public comments?

Email your questions or comments to ask.planning@yakimawa.gov. Refer to project # CL3#003-21.