Community Input Guides Next Steps for Seattle’s 2SLGBTQIA+ Rapid Relief Funding 

In August 2026, the City of Seattle announced $550,000 in rapid relief funding for 2SLGBTQIA+ communities in Seattle. The Seattle Office for Civil Rights (SOCR) has since engaged 2SLGBTQIA+ community members to ensure the funding process reflects community priorities.   

What We’re Hearing from Community  

Community members have shared several key priorities:   

• Housing and Economic Stability: Many 2SLGBTQIA+ people struggle to afford housing and find stable work in Seattle. Discrimination and funding cuts make it even harder for people to access what they need.  
• Health and Safety Support: People need better access to affirming healthcare and culturally responsive services, especially for BIPOC communities, survivors of violence, transgender people, youth, elders, and people with disabilities.   
• Community Connection and Culturally Responsive Care: Community members want affirming, welcoming spaces where they can connect, build relationships, and access public services that respect their identities, cultures, and experiences.   
• Support for Community Organizations: Community organizations are under-resourced and losing staff and programs, making it harder to provide essential services.   

SOCR is grateful to the Seattle LGBTQ Commission, Entre Hermanos, TRACTION, Queer Power Alliance, Coalition for Ending Gender Based Violence, GenPride, POCAAN, and Alphabet Alliance of Color for sharing their time, knowledge, and thoughtful input in support of 2SLGBTQIA+ communities.   

What’s Next for Rapid Relief Funding?  

Guided by community input, the City has identified two pathways to distribute $450,000 to organizations addressing the needs and priorities of Seattle’s 2SLGBTQIA+ community members: 

1. Expand funding for existing community services 
   • The City will boost current contracts with 2SLGBTQIA+ community-based organizations through the Human Services Department (HSD). This will strengthen essential services like housing assistance, food access, employment support, legal referrals, social services, and gender affirming care.   

2. Launching a community-informed funding opportunity  
   • The City will partner with a local philanthropic organization to distribute $250,000 through an open application process. The process will include an information session to support applicants and use a community-informed rubric to guide evaluations. 
   • The application process is anticipated to launch by end of 2026. Details will be shared when applications open.  
   • Once awardees are selected, the City will share more information about the organizations receiving funding, their planned work, and the impact of these investments. 

Save the Date: 2SLGBTQIA+ Resource Event   

In the meantime, please mark your calendars and join us for the 2026 2SLGBQTIA+ Community Resource Event to access resources, learn about services, and connect with community organizations, city agencies, regional service providers, and other community members. 

• Saturday, November 7, 2026  
• 11 am to 4 pm  
• El Centro de la Raza – Centilia Cultural Center  
• Seattle, Washington  

Regular updates will be made on the 2SLGBTQIA+ Rapid Relief webpage. Check back often for information on the funding process, available resources, event details and what you may need to access services. You can also RSVP to receive updates by email.    

For questions, please contact the Seattle Office for Civil Rights: civilrights@seattle.gov 

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