In a recent government meeting, local officials discussed the allocation of community grants, revealing a significant increase in requests compared to previous years. The total funding requested this year reached $350,000, a stark contrast to the $144,000 allocated last year. However, the council ultimately decided to distribute $168,000, approximately half of the requested amount.

Key organizations receiving funding included All Saints Community Service, which will continue to receive $45,100, and Micasa, which maintains its funding at $25,000. The council recommended a reduced grant of $10,000 for Communities and Schools, down from their request of $30,000. Notably, Helping Hand House saw a substantial cut in funding, from $95,000 last year to $47,500 this year, due to concerns over leadership changes and decreased board member contributions.

The Puyallup Food Bank, which had previously faced funding issues related to zoning violations for proposed homeless services, was granted $20,000. This decision comes after the council confirmed that the food bank had addressed past concerns regarding their application process.

Other organizations, such as the Tacoma Rescue Mission and Vallejo Vocation, were also discussed, with the latter receiving support for its employment services aimed at preventing homelessness. The council emphasized the importance of directing funds to agencies that primarily serve the Puyallup community.

As the meeting concluded, officials acknowledged the challenges of balancing community needs with available resources, highlighting the increased demand for support amid ongoing economic pressures.