To help address part of the homeless situation in Federal Way, city officials announced Thursday the creation of a Homeless Mothers and Children Initiative, including the launch of an immediate winter shelter for mothers and their children at New Hope Community Church.

In addition to the shelter, the initiative, which is being co-chaired by City Councilwoman Susan Honda and homeless advocate Sharry Edwards at the appointment of Mayor Jim Ferrell, “will immediately begin working to fill gaps in services and coordinate shelter for those in need.”

“Having spent many years working with families in Federal Way, I am very excited to know mothers and children in need of shelter will have a safe and warm place to go,” Honda said in the press release. “Federal Way has shelter for single men and women, and this will be a great addition to help those who are falling through the cracks and have no reprieve from the freezing temperatures.”

More information to follow.