Laserfiche WebLink
people want help: and many are actively trying to stabilize their lives but need access to safe housing and <br />meaningful support. <br />peer support is powerful: participants emphasized the role of trusted guides with lived experience in helping <br />others navigate the system. <br />Rural communitv challenges: transportation, isolation, and limited provider options create unique barriers <br />in smaller communities. <br />o The tone of our communitv matters: how people are spoken to, treated, and portrayed can either encourage <br />engagement or push PeoPle awaY. <br />participants consistently emphasized the need for peer advocates, simptified processes, and a shift in how the <br />communitytatks about and treats peopte experiencing hometessness. These ideas helped shape the plan's focus <br />on low-barrier access, dignity-centered services, and targeted investment in critical supports. <br />participants who identified as low-income or as having lived experience of homelessness were offered compensation <br />for their time and expertise at a rate of 525 per hour, paid directly. This practice aligns with guidance from the <br />Washington State Office of Equity on participant engagement and compensation. <br />a <br />a <br />a <br />Page | 11