Budget Overview and Funding Sources
Overview
The Human Services Department (HSD) is one of the largest contributors to Seattle's safety net. Every year, we invest hundreds of millions of dollars into services that help Seattle residents meet their most basic needs—food, shelter, health care, safety, and opportunity.
Through contracts with community-based organizations and programs delivered by HSD staff, we provide support across all ages and communities. HSD's Aging and Disability Services division also serves King County as the designated Area Agency on Aging.
Funding Sources
HSD’s work is funded through a mix of local and external revenue sources:
- Federal, state, and inter-local grants
- The City’s General Fund
- The Sweetened Beverage Tax
- Short Term Rental Tax
- Payroll Expense Tax
- Opioid Settlement Fund
Budget Highlights
The Human Services Department's Adopted Budget is $385 million for 2025. We contract with more than 190 community-based organizations in service of our mission: to connect people with resources and solutions during times of need so we can all live, learn, work, and take part in strong, healthy communities. Download the full HSD Budget Overview from the City Budget Office.
Key Investments
- $139M for homelessness response
- $64M for community safety and violence prevention
- $26M for public health, including mobile integrated health services
- $26M for food and nutrition programs
Addressing Homelessness
The budget includes increased investments in shelter, rental assistance, outreach, and behavioral health support. New ongoing and one-time funding will expand shelter capacity and youth-focused services. Learn more about the City’s response to encampments.
Supporting Safe Communities
HSD invests in programs that prevent violence, support youth safety in and out of school, address human trafficking, and continue outreach efforts along Third Avenue and in the Chinatown-International District. Learn more about the City’s efforts to create safer communities.
Promoting Public Health and Nutrition
HSD’s budget streamlines investments in public health and increases funding for substance use recovery. The department distributes the majority of its health-based funding to Public Health—Seattle & King County.
As part of ensuring healthy families, HSD supports many food and nutrition resources provided by the City of Seattle and our network of contracted providers and community partners
Preparing Youth for Success
HSD also invests in employment opportunities, mentoring and educational support, food and nutrition, and behavioral and mental health for youth and young adults. Learn more about HSD’s support for programs that help families and young people thrive.
Promoting Healthy Aging
As the King County Area Agency on Aging, HSD promotes quality of life, independence, and choice for older people and adults with disabilities. Learn more about how HSD promotes quality of life and aims to make our community a great place to grow up and grow old.
Recent Reports
Funding Opportunities: Organizations interested in partnering with HSD can explore current Funding Opportunities and learn about the application process.