Two years ago, a team with a simple yet bold mission set out to address homelessness in Kitsap County.

Known as the Health Engagement Action Resource Team (HEART), it didn’t just aim to provide services—it built trust, one name and one conversation at a time.

Now, with dozens of success stories and significant milestones, the HEART team is experiencing a decline in homeless encampments across the county. But its work isn’t finished.

“We know these people by name,” said Carl Borg, Housing and Homelessness program manager and CEO of United Way of Kitsap County. “It’s more than just numbers for us. It’s about creating a pathway back to stability, and that starts with understanding each person’s barriers.”

The HEART team’s initial mission is simple: to connect with the homeless community, build relationships and understand the unique battles they face in accessing services.

Over time, HEART’s efforts have expanded, but the focus remains the same—meeting people where they are. “We had larger encampments when we first started, and that’s where a lot of our work was focused—getting people into shelters and services,” Borg said. “Now, thanks to the trust we’ve built, we’ve been able to reduce those encampments significantly.”

The team’s accomplishments in 2023 are a result of their hard work. Borg said some of their recent milestones include enrolling three people into the Benedict House Shelter program, referring three others to Pendleton Place, and connecting two women to St. Vincent de Paul’s Women’s Shelter. Seven people were taken to St. Michael Medical Center for emergent health services, and 32 were linked to the R.E.A.L. team for mental health and substance use resources. Additionally, 15 people were connected to Kitsap Recovery Center’s In Need program, with five completing treatment and transitioning to stable housing.

Collaboration has been key to the HEART team’s success. It regularly partners with agencies like Kitsap Recovery and Kitsap Mental Health to provide a range of services.

“We work with everyone within the county,” Borg said. “We don’t have authority in Bremerton or Port Orchard, but we help wherever we can, sharing information and resources.”

Those who have been helped appreciate the services. Travis Metzker, a former resident of Benedict House, praised the shelter’s comprehensive support: “The staff here are not just attentive and compassionate but also highly skilled. They provide the tools necessary for a brighter future.”

Point in Time Count numbers shows there were 530 homeless in 2018, dropping to 245 in 2023. While the number was 255 at the start of 2024 numbers anecdotally have dropped since then.

The organizations HEART works with also are in need of help. Felicia Kolhage, director of finance and human services at St. Vincent de Paul Bremerton, highlighted the critical need for donations. “The Stella Maris House is partially funded by county and state funds. However, annually, a bed at the Stella Maris House costs $3,942 in donated funds to operate,” she said. Kolhage encourages community members to sponsor a bed, which includes a personalized plaque, social media recognition and a tour of the shelter.

Despite their achievements, the HEART team faces ongoing challenges, the lack of shelter beds and the rising cost of rent. “People who are working in Silverdale just can’t afford an apartment or house to live in,” Borg said. “That’s the big key.”

Nevertheless, the HEART team’s approach of personal outreach remains its most effective strategy. “When we get a report of someone setting up an encampment, majority of the time we already know who it is,” Borg said. “We can go up to them, call them by name, and start a conversation. That’s how we’ve been able to reduce the number of encampments.”

Looking ahead, the HEART team has new plans in motion. A new shelter is set to open soon, offering the same amount of bed space as the Quality Inn but with added services like rehabilitation and medical care on-site. Borg said that will encourage more people to seek help. “A lot of people aren’t ready to be behind a locked door by themselves, so this new building offers a more congregated setting, which can be less intimidating.”

The new shelter called the Pacific Building will be at 4459 SE Mile Hill Drive in Port Orchard. It will house up to 75 men, women and family members, along with their pets. People can stay 90 days, but that can be extended a month at a time. Residents are transferring from the Quality Inn shelter on Kitsap Way in Bremerton. The Quality Inn shelter houses about 70 people.

As the HEART team moves forward, Borg remains hopeful that its efforts will continue to make a lasting impact. “We’ve come a long way, but there’s still more work to be done,” he said. “Our goal is to keep building trust and keep getting people into the services they need to rebuild their lives especially this holiday season.”

Housing providers

Benedict House: Only facility for homeless men in Kitsap County. Provides 27 beds. Clean and sober living. Is in need of donations of coats, socks, underwear and money. 360-377-6136; Bremerton

Pendleton Place: For adults, provides in-and outpatient services, substance use recovery, medication-assisted treatment, primary dental care. Homes for 72 people who have chronic mental health or substance use disorders. One-bedroom and studio apartments for permanent supportive housing. Common area, computer lab. Needs donations of personal hygiene items and educational materials. 360-373-5031; Bremerton

Recovery, Empowerment, Advocacy, Linkage (REAL): Connects homeless with first responders and police to connect to mental health and addiction services. 360-842-2396; Poulsbo, Bremerton and Port Orchard locations

St. Vincent de Paul: A women and children’s shelter. Features 25 beds, children’s play area, garden, kitchen and laundry room along with compassionate assistance. Needs toiletries, clothing and bedding supplies 360-876-9430; Bremerton

St. Michael Medical Center: Offers urgent healthcare access to homeless people and is looking for volunteer medical professionals for routine checkups. Silverdale

Kitsap Recovery Center: In Need program provides substance abuse treatment. 360-337-4625; Port Orchard

Pendleton Place courtesy photo