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Our History
For more than 20 years, AFC has helped families move from crisis to stability through shelter, housing assistance, case management, employment support, financial literacy education, and connections to critical community resources. In 2025, AFC achieved an 87% success rate, measured by families securing safe, permanent housing and stable income. Since our founding, we have served over 2,000 families, helping parents and children build stronger, more stable futures.
2003
“Survey finds homelessness; shelter plans moving ahead”
BY ELAINE WILSON
Anacortes American, Dec 7 2003, Page 1
"On one day in October there were 67 homeless people - including 11 children - living in Anacortes, according to a survey conducted by the Anacortes Community Shelter Project, a group that is working to establish an emergency family shelter in the city..."
2005
501(c)(3) nonprofit status
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Initial funds are raised to purchase two properties on 27th Street.
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A capital campaign raises more than an additional $2 million.
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Emergency Shelter construction begins in 2008.
2009
Emergency Shelter
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Nine units are built, plus admin offices.
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AFC's client success rate reaches 80% every year.
2010-2016
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2010:
The organization's name is changed from "Anacortes Community Shelter" to "Anacortes Family Center" to avoid confusion about the purpose of the shelter. Some community members assumed the "shelter" rehomed pets.
2014:
AFC's "Rent Ready" program, adapted from a Community Action, is adopted.
2015:
AFC purchases the properties at 1016 and 1020 27th Street​​.
2016:
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AFC purchases the properties at 1018 and 1020 27th Street​ in March​.
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After a capital campaign kicked off in May, all funds needed to begin construction on the Transitional Shelter (now called "TB" for short) are raised within two months.
2020
"Launch"
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"Launch," AFC's first affordable housing complex, opens.
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AFC strengthens partnerships with the Children's Museum and the Skagit County Health Department.
2021
Temporary Admin Building
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AFC moves into its temporary Admin Building across the street at 2707.
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AFC inherits property on 31st Street to add to its affordable housing program.
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2026
"AFC Cottages"
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AFC is expanding its affordable housing program with 4 single family rental homes.
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AFC Cottages have 3 bedrooms, 2.5 baths and are close to schools and parks.
2003
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AFC continues to Grow
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Since 2003, when community members decided to help families in need, AFC has grown into an impressive campus and continues to grow.
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AFC is partnering with key organizations in the community to continuously address the growing needs of families in crisis.
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AFC is not simply a shelter, but a comprehensive program that offers a continuum of care, addressing individual barriers, helping families overcome these barriers, and ultimately guiding them towards long-term independence and self-sufficiency.
2026