HomeShelters and Homeless ServicesNativity House

Our mission is to create trusting relationships with our guests, so that they may be challenged to greater life.

Nativity House is a daytime shelter and community center for  people experiencing homelessness. We offer a refuge from the dangers of the streets to all who come to our doors. Whether our guests need a meal, clothing, toiletries, referrals to social services—or just a smile—the staff at Nativity House are there to provide it.

Nativity House offers the only therapeutic art room in the city of Tacoma, offering a place for guests to begin to address the roots of their fears and anger through artistic expression.

Guests at Nativity House can also get help with Washington I.D. cards, bus tickets, jobs and health appointments, rent support. Nativity House also offers crisis intervention for medical emergencies, abuse/neglect, mental health issues, assault, domestic violence, sexual abuse and run-away youth. We provide referrals and referrals to mental health treatment, drug and alcohol abuse treatment, detox centers and overnight shelters and feeding programs.

History of Nativity House

When a small storefront in the heart of Tacoma opened on Christmas Eve in 1979 with a coffee pot, a loaf of bread, a jar of peanut butter and a community of people wanting to be in relationship with those on the streets—Nativity House was born.

In the past three 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 programs in the city. Our new building, at the corner of 23rd and South Jefferson Avenue, was opened in February of 2003. In July of 2010 Nativity House became a program of CCS, further strengthening the common goal of both organizations to serve those most in need in the most compassionate, effectual, and respectful manner possible. We continue to seek active partnerships with local churches, schools, businesses and individuals in order to bring a wide circle of community to our work.

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.

Thank you to all our guests, sponsors and donors who made the 20^th annual Nativity House Fundraising Auction a great success this year.  The event, held Saturday, February 25^th, was our highest grossing Gala to date, raising over $150,000 for continued operation of Nativity House in Tacoma, a Community Center for those experiencing homelessness.

We sincerely thank each of you for your generous support and caring about Nativity House.

Mark your calendars for next year’s event: Saturday, February 23, 2013. 

For more information, contact Cindy Rush Grady at (253) 502-2744.