DESC is a non-profit organization dedicated to helping people who are most marginalized find homes, health and community. Founded in 1979 as an emergency shelter for vulnerable homeless men and women living with mental illness, substance-use disorders, and other disabilities. Today, DESC is the Puget Sound Region's most comprehensive provider of services, including housing, for chronically homeless adults. DESC's services include emergency shelter and outreach, supportive housing, mental health care, addiction treatment, crisis intervention, employment services and vocational training. At DESC, uncommon efforts produce uncommon results that help eliminate homelessness, one person at a time.

Mission: The Downtown Emergency Service Center (DESC) works to end the homelessness of vulnerable people, particularly those living with serious mental or addictive illnesses. Through partnerships and an integrated array of comprehensive services, treatment and housing, we give people the opportunity to reach their highest potential. At DESC, uncommon efforts produce uncommon results that eliminate homelessness, one person at a time.