Seattle, WA – SouthEast Effective Development (SEED) and HomeSight announce the opening of a COVID-19 testing site adjacent to their office building in Columbia City, to be managed by UW Medicine. This testing site will be relocated from Rainier Beach, where UW Medicine has been operating a site for over a year.    

“When we learned via Councilmember Morales that UW Medicine needed a new testing location in the South End, we were happy to help,” said Michael Seiwerath, SEED Executive Director. “No one wanted our community to lose free COVID testing. SEED is proud to be able to provide access to testing for the residents of Southeast Seattle.”

“As a community partner, we at HomeSight are proud to participate in this important effort in helping to keep South Seattle safe. Thanks goes to Councilmember Morales for bringing the issue of a new COVID-19 testing site to our attention,” said Darryl Smith, HomeSight Executive Director. 

“I’m proud to facilitate the partnership between HomeSight, SEED, and UW Medicine to be able to maintain this crucial resource in Southeast Seattle,” said Councilmember Tammy J. Morales, who represents South Seattle. “Access to free and reliable testing is an important component of public health for our communities.” 

The walk-up/wheel-up COVID-19 testing site will be located at 5117 Rainier Ave S, Seattle, WA 98118. Limited free parking is available on site. The site will officially open with a ribbon cutting ceremony on Monday, March 14, at 11:30 am. 

COVID-19 testing is available at no cost, regardless of immigration or insurance status. This Columbia City testing site will be open Monday – Saturday, 9 am – 5 pm. More information is available at https://www.uwmedicine.org/coronavirus/testing.  

“UW Medicine is committed to its mission of improving the health of the community. Providing accessible, no cost COVID testing remains a critical resource for all of the communities we serve.” said Laura Zaugg, Remote Testing Site Program Coordinator, University of Washington Medical Center. 

About SEED 

SouthEast Effective Development (SEED)’s mission is to improve the quality of life in Southeast Seattle by creating partnerships and inspiring investments in housing, arts, and economic development – with a special focus on residents with fewer opportunities and resources. SEED owns 1,135 affordable apartments and is an active developer of new buildings. Award-winning SEEDArts manages Rainier Arts Center, Columbia City Gallery, SEEDArts Studios, KVRU 105.7 FM, and a public art program. Through economic development, SEED works to equitably build economic opportunity for the residents and businesses of Southeast Seattle. 

Learn more at seedseattle.org  

About HomeSight 

HomeSight promotes social and economic equity to preserve and enhance economically and culturally diverse communities through affordable homeownership, business development, and community advocacy. HomeSight believes that communities can only be strong, vibrant, and equitable if homeownership is attainable, cultural anchors can thrive in place, small businesses have access to the knowledge and tools to excel in changing markets, and prosperity is built and shared amongst all members of each unique community. 

Learn more at homesightwa.org