In 1980, members of downtown Seattle's Plymouth Congregational Church became deeply concerned when they realized homeless people were sleeping on their church doorstep. Proclaiming that "one homeless person is one too many," Rev. Dr. David Colwell challenged his congregation to end homelessness in downtown Seattle.

Church members responded and founded Plymouth Housing Group as an independent, non-profit organization to develop and operate housing for homeless and very poor people in Seattle.

Plymouth Housing Group has since grown to be one of the largest providers of very low-income housing in downtown Seattle. With more nearly 1,000 apartment units and 17 retail tenants in 12 buildings, Plymouth Housing group today has an annual operating budget of $11.1 million.

Plymouth Housing Group's comprehensive approach to providing affordable housing and supportive services has been overwhelmingly successful, earning our organization local and national recognition as a leader in the effort to end homelessness.