The Downtown Emergency Service Center (DESC) is a comprehensive resource for homeless and formerly homeless adults in Seattle and King County. Established in 1979, DESC provides a range of services including emergency shelter, permanent supportive housing, mental health treatment, addiction treatment, and employment services. They work with the most vulnerable individuals, particularly those living with serious mental illnesses or substance use disorders, by following a "Housing First" approach. Their mission is to end homelessness for the most vulnerable individuals through an integrated array of services.