Thrive International seeks $2.1M for Tacoma facility amid refugee support efforts

In a recent meeting of the Washington Legislature's House Capital Budget Committee, community leaders presented compelling cases for funding that could significantly impact local residents. The discussions highlighted the urgent needs of various communities, particularly in Spokane and Sunnyside.

Mark Finney, executive director of Thrive International, emphasized the importance of continued support for refugee services. He reported that Thrive has successfully assisted nearly 1,000 refugees in becoming productive members of the community over the past three years. Finney requested $2.1 million to expand their facilities in Tacoma, underscoring the necessity of supporting immigrants not only for humanitarian reasons but also to bolster the local workforce.

Ginger Ewing, representing Terrain, advocated for the Trane Cultural Hub project, which aims to revitalize two historic buildings in downtown Spokane. Ewing highlighted the project's potential to create 228 full-time jobs, support 400 small businesses, and inject $20 million annually into the local economy. She requested an increase in funding from $207,000 to $1 million to attract further investments and enhance Spokane's arts economy.

Mike Gonzales, city manager of Sunnyside, shared the challenges faced by his community, where nearly 90% of residents are Latino and the median household income is significantly below the state average. He detailed the impact of budget constraints, including the closure of the community center and the urgent need for upgrades to the community pool. Gonzales also addressed rising violence in the area, sharing a tragic incident involving a young mother. He expressed gratitude for the legislature's attention to Sunnyside's needs and called for support to help overcome these challenges.

The meeting underscored the critical role of state funding in addressing community needs and fostering economic growth. As local leaders continue to advocate for their constituents, the outcomes of these discussions could shape the future of essential services and community development across Washington.