Open Doors for Multicultural Families (ODMF) extends its heartfelt gratitude to the Washington State legislators who have signed on in support of the Kent Multicultural Village capital budget request. Their leadership and commitment to inclusive, accessible housing and services for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) are crucial in making this transformative project a reality.
A special thank you to Senator Tina Orwall and Representative Edwin Orbas, our champions in the Senate and House, for leading this effort. We also appreciate the support of Representatives Jamila Taylor, Darya Farivar, Sam Low, Chris Stearns, Brianna Thomas, Julia Reed, and Shaun Scott, along with Senators Mark Schoesler, Claire Wilson, Bob Hasegawa, Noel Frame, and T’wina Nobles. Their advocacy for the $12.9 million state capital budget request underscores a shared vision for a more equitable and supportive Washington.
The Kent Multicultural Village, a partnership between ODMF and Mercy Housing Northwest, will provide:
233 units of affordable housing, with 20% reserved for individuals and families with IDD.
A Regional Early Learning Center, to help address the severe shortage of early learning slots for children ages 3–5, with a focus on children with disabilities.
A Family Resource Center, expanding ODMF’s capacity to serve over 2,000 families annually. The center will provide access to day programs for adults with IDD, senior caregivers, youth and assistive technology. The center will be a safe, nurturing space where families, and caregivers can access essential services.
“This project will not only benefit Kent—it’ll be a regional resource that will impact people and families navigating IDD across King County, Pierce County, and the entire state,” said Senator Tina Orwall (33rd LD), one of the initiative’s key supporters. “By investing in the Kent Multicultural Village, we’re creating housing and services for those in immediate need, and we’re building a model of inclusive community development that can inspire similar initiatives throughout Washington.”
The $12.9 million request represents just 7.81% of the total project cost, yet it is vital to breaking ground in early 2026. Without full funding, construction delays could drive up costs and prolong the wait for families in urgent need of housing and services.
ODMF deeply appreciates the commitment of these legislators to fostering a more inclusive future. Their leadership brings Washington one step closer to ensuring that individuals with IDD and their families have the stability, resources, and opportunities they deserve.
For more information on how to support the Kent Multicultural Village, visit opendoorswa.org or contact Andrea Kassa, Director of Development at andreak@opendoorswa.org
Open Doors for Multicultural Families is a registered 501(c)3 nonprofit in the United States, EIN #27-1206272.
© 2009 - 2025 Open Doors for Multicultural Families. All Rights Reserved. Website designed and developed by Lucid Fox.