Our Mission
Firesteel is committed to ending homelessness through innovative advocacy. We challenge dominant assumptions about homelessness by emphasizing the systemic barriers contributing to this crisis. In shifting the framework from blame to institutional disadvantages, we can better inform policy change. By mobilizing our community to advocate for structural change, Firesteel works to create improved state policies that deliver more stable housing for women and families, foster more opportunities for income generation, and build assets for those who are most vulnerable.
Our Story
YWCA Seattle | King | Snohomish has a long history of success in serving women and families in crisis. The recent recession forced government budget cuts that greatly affected our clients and programs. Realizing the need for public policies that empower families with low incomes, we created Firesteel in 2012 to advocate for structural change. YWCAs across Washington state have joined us in telling the story of family homelessness, and giving advocates tools to spark change.
Our Staff
Eric Bronson is the Interim Firesteel Advocacy Manager at YWCA. He manages the Firesteel blog in addition to its social media streams and action initiatives. A graduate of Oberlin College, Eric focuses on the intersection of race and gender within the American political economy. Eric can be reached at ebronson@ywcaworks.org