Jeff Humphrey, Media Manager, 509.625.6308
Wednesday, November 30, 2022 at 2:29 p.m.
The Trent Resource and Assistance Center (TRAC) is now a hot bed of activity.
Daily deliveries, coordinated by Spokane County Emergency Management, are investments in making the Center more accommodating for the people staying at the facility.
For example, in the navigation center parking lot, new trailers are creating office space for counselors.
“We’re going at breakneck speed here. And it’s a lot of change in a short period of time. Our part of that is bringing in what we can, as fast as we can,” said David Brousard from Spokane County Emergency Management.
“The portable offices at TRAC will also provide a foundation for recovery for those in need. Having access to an indoor environment that is safe, private, and warm is a critical component to connecting these people to the services that they need,” explained Spokane County Commissioner Mary Kuney.
People pondering making a move to TRAC are worried about not being able to bring along their belongings.
That’s why the City and County worked together to add shipping containers for extra personal storage. Moving storage outside frees up more space inside for people.
“Their possessions are important. And, to be able to provide a secure facility for them allows both the Salvation Army, and the residents here, to know that their belongings are both safe and secure,” pledged Mark Conrad, also from Spokane County Emergency Management.
Safety and security helps build trust between providers and their guests. The TRAC staff has even created a sanitary place for residents to relieve their pets.
“And also, listening and getting feedback from those using the navigation center,” Spokane Mayor Nadine Woodward said of efforts to make the TRAC more hospitable.
Listening to residents and acting on their feedback is one way of removing obstacles preventing people from taking advantage of the services offered at the navigation center.
“When this is done, people are going to see how much work we accomplished. When the weather starts hitting really hard, I think there’s going to be a lot of people out in the community who are thankful for this,” predicted Brousard.
City and County leaders say they’re thankful The Salvation Army has stepped up to manage the center. Here in Spokane, the nonprofit has a track record of helping people find their way out of homelessness.
