Salvation Army to Reduce Bremerton Shelter Hours Due to Funding Cuts
The Salvation Army in Bremerton will shift its low-barrier emergency shelter to overnight-only hours starting January 1, 2026, due to a loss of nearly $150,000 monthly in federal funding. This change will affect the city's unhoused population, likely increasing street homelessness during daytime.
The shelter has provided significant services, including over 26,000 nights of safe shelter in 2025. Kitsap County's funding for the shelter has decreased from $220,000 to $75,000 monthly. The shelter will continue offering a hygiene center and meals, but residents must leave during the day.
The city of Bremerton is unable to provide additional funding, and plans for a replacement shelter have stalled. The Bremerton Housing Authority recently purchased a property for a potential shelter project, but further direction from the city is needed.
