Nativity House is Tacoma's only daytime drop-in shelter for the homeless. We offer a refuge from the dangers of the streets to all who come to our doors. Whether our guests need a meal, clothing, referrals to social services, or just a smile, the staff at Nativity House is there to provide it. Our mission is to create trusting relationships with our guests, so that they may be challenged to greater life.
Nativity House was established on Christmas Eve 1979. In the past two decades we have grown from a small store front operation with little money and a small group of loyal supporters, to one of the major homeless agencies in the city. Our new building, at the corner of 23rd and South Jefferson Avenue, was opened in February of 2003. The facility offers the homeless a clean, safe and dignified environment. We continue to seek active partnerships with local churches, schools, businesses and individuals in order to bring a wide circle of community to our agency.
We serve 2 meals a day - breakfast and lunch - and provide clean, dry clothing, and toiletry items. We help our guests with Washington I.D. cards, bus tickets to jobs and health appointments, non-narcotic prescription drug support, rent support, and referrals to mental health treatment, drug and alcohol abuse treatment, detox centers and overnight shelters and feeding programs. Nativity House is the only shelter that reaches out to incarcerated and hospitalized guests, and the only one that makes funeral arrangements and holds memorial services for those who would otherwise pass on without these simple dignities.
We believe in the dignity and worth of every human being; that everyone is created and loved by God; that by being accepting, being free of judgment and prejudice, we help all people believe in their dignity and worth. We accept all people independent of their place in society. We respect all people, and believe that the role of Nativity House towards its guests should neither be sentimental, nor overly protective, but encouraging toward greater life. We believe that Nativity House is fulfilling its purpose as a sign of God's love and fidelity.