Former hotel to house homeless

Homeless Pierce County residents, including those who are recovering from surgeries, emergency room stays and other medical care will soon be able to rehabilitate in a former motel. The Low-Income Housing Institute (LIHI), with $10 million provided by the county and the state Department of Commerce, purchased Clarion Inn, located on Tacoma Mall Boulevard near Interstate 5, and renamed it Oasis Inn. The 117 rooms will be used as emergency shelter and supportive housing, with 51 rooms serving as medical respite.  The latter will operate as part of the state’s Apple Health and Homes Program, which matches healthcare services with housing resources. The Oasis facility will have 24-hour staffing, case management, security, and medical services onsite.
“While the need still greatly outpaces available resources, this new shelter will be a welcome addition to the array of homeless services available across our county,” said Heather Moss, director of the county’s Human Services Department.