Housing
Working to make safe, affordable housing accessible to all. Washington is committed to seeing safe, decent and affordable housing for all residents. The Department of Commerce provides tools to local governments, nonprofits and community action agencies to ensure that everyone is housed in their communities. Our support ranges from capital funding to build and preserve affordable housing stock to programs that prevent families from becoming homeless.
Washington State Housing Trust Fund
There is a growing gap between incomes and rents. Communities across our state can't keep up with demand for affordable housing. Since 1986, the Housing Trust Fund has helped local authorities and nonprofits provide options to meet basic needs for thousands of low-income individuals and families.
In 2016, we celebrate 30 years of the Washington State Housing Trust fund. Read about our work in the Washington State Housing Trust Fund 2016 Report (PDF).
Read more about the Housing Trust Fund.
Homelessness
Shelter is a basic human need. Without a safe place to live, people who may be struggling to survive have little hope of connecting with services and opportunities to tackle physical and mental health needs, go to school, get and hold a job or provide for children and other family members. Stable housing supports a path to self-sufficiency.
Read more about homelessness programs at Commerce.
Foreclosure Fairness
The Foreclosure Fairness Program offers free housing counseling, civil legal aid, and foreclosure mediation to homeowners.
Read more about the foreclosure fairness program at Commerce.
Mobile and Manufactured Home Relocation Assistance
If you own your own mobile or manufactured home and live in a park that's closing in Washington, you may be eligible for relocation assistance. Eligible low-income households may qualify for mobile and manufactured home relocation assistance on a first-come, first-served basis. Residents in parks closed due to health and safety concerns or park-owner fraud receive priority.
Read more about the Manufactured/Mobile Home Relocation Assistance Program at Commerce.
Weatherization
Weatherization is adding insulation, sealing cracks and making other changes that reduce heat loss, save you money on heating bills, and make your home or apartment healthier. Commerce runs weatherization programs for qualified low-income households.
Read more about the Weatherization Programs at Commerce.
Lead-Based Paint
Commerce regulates certification, accreditation, enforcement and compliance for firms and individuals to use lead-safe work practices when working on pre-1978 homes or child-occupied facilities.
Read more about the lead-based paint resources at Commerce.
Need help?
In most cases the Department of Commerce does not offer direct public assistance. We fund other agencies and non-profit organizations in communities who can help. Here are some frequently requested resources: