Seattle issues $30 million RFP for homelessness solutions

For the first time in more than 10 years, the City of Seattle is asking for bids on ways to mitigate its homeless problem.

The Human Services Department issued a $30 million request for proposals (RFP), soliciting ideas from agencies that provide services that move homeless people closer to permanent housing.

Mayor Ed Murray says the goal is to create a coordinated approach to homelessness in the city, rather than relying on what he calls "a series of disconnected, boutique services."

The city plans to announce this winter which plan, or plans, won the $30 million in funding.

Editor’s note: A previous version of this story stated that this was "a way for people in Seattle to weigh in on ways to get people off the streets." In fact, this is not a contest for the public. It is a formal process for homeless provider agencies and grassroot organizations in the area to submit formal proposals for services. We regret the error.