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Jobs and Community Resources – 4/13/22

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~SOLID GROUND 2022 COMMUNITY NEEDS ASSESSMENT~

WHAT SUPPORT DO YOU NEED TO THRIVE? 

WHAT: At Solid Ground, we believe that real and lasting solutions to poverty will only come from people who have experienced it – and therefore understand it the best.

Through our Community Needs Assessment, we ask our participants, partners, and other community members to tell us about the barriers they experience and support they need to thrive. In these responses, we hope to identify the unmet needs of people living on low incomes in King County, illuminate barriers that limit our effectiveness as an agency, and develop recommendations to help us better address these challenges.

You can help guide our work in the coming years by taking 10 to 15 minutes to fill out our 2022 Community Needs Survey, which is available in a variety of languages. As thanks for your help, the first 250 people to submit completed surveys will receive a $5 Fred Meyer gift card. All completed surveys will be entered into a drawing for a chance to win a $25, $50, or $100 Fred Meyer gift card.

~NEW THIS WEEK~

MID-CERTIFICATION REVIEWS WAIVED FOR DSHS FOOD AND CASH BENEFITS 

WHAT: If you have a six-month Mid-Certification Review for your food or cash benefits due in April, May, or June 2022, those reviews have been waived. Annual Eligibility Reviews are still required, so double-check all letters and forms that come to you in the mail from Washington State Department of Social and Health Services (DSHS).

MORE INFO: Call the Customer Service Contact Center at 877.501.2233 or go to the Washington Connection website.

PAID YOUTH INTERNSHIPS  

WHEN: Info session Thursday, April 14, 2022, 10am or 6pm

WHAT: Youth ages 16-24 are invited to attend an information session to learn more about paid internships available this fall through the Seattle Youth Employment Program. This is an opportunity to boost your career, make connections, and have fun.

TO REGISTER: Fill out the Seattle Youth Employment Program Information Session Registration.

FRESH FRUITS AND VEGETABLES FOR SENIORS 

WHEN: Applications due Friday, April 29, 2022

WHAT: The Senior Farmers Market Nutrition Program (SFMNP) provides $40 worth of vouchers/checks (one-time distribution) to be used for the purchase of fresh fruits and vegetables at participating farmers markets.

Eligibility requirements: 

  • Age 60+ (or age 55+ if you are American Indian/Alaska Native) by June 30
  • Low income – no more than:
  • $2,096 monthly ($25,142 annual) income for one person
  • $2,823 monthly ($33,874 annual) income for two people
  • For larger households, add $728 for each additional person
  • Resident of King County, Washington

Completed applications received will be entered into a random selection process. If your name is selected, you will receive your vouchers/checks by mail in July 2022.

TO APPLY: The 2022 application period started Monday, April 11, and will close on Friday, April 29. To apply, use one of the following options. Do not apply more than once, duplicate applications will be removed.

  • Apply online: Open the SFMNP online application. Online applicants can select one of 11 languages in the upper right corner of the application site.
  • Print and return by mail: SFMNP application forms (PDFs) are available in 11 language. Printed applications must be completed and mailed to the address on the form, postmarked on or before April 29.

MORE INFO: Go to the Senior Farmers Market Nutrition Program webpage or contact Community Living Connections at 206.962.8467 or (toll-free) 1.844.348.5464.

FREE SEATTLE ARTS & LECTURES TICKETS 

WHAT: For in-person events, Seattle Arts & Lectures offers at least 10-20 free tickets per event, depending on each venue’s seating capacity. For online viewing, Digital Passes are available for every event.

The selection is randomized by computer, and if selected, you will be notified via email two weeks prior to each event.

TO APPLY: Fill out SAL’s Community Access Tickets Application.

QUESTIONS? Call the SAL Box Office at 206.621.2230 ext. 10, or send an email to boxoffice@lectures.org.

LOWES HIRING EVENT 

WHEN: Thursday, April 21, 2022, 9am-5pm

WHERE: Lowe’s Store #0004, 2700 Rainier Avenue South, Seattle, WA 98144

WHAT: Learn about job opportunities at Lowe’s.

Job details: 

  • Comprehensive health and financial benefits
  • 10% off select Lowe’s purchases
  • Access to training, tuition reimbursement, trade programs, and more ways to grow in your career
  • Bilingual applicants are encouraged to apply

QUESTIONS? Call 206.760.0832.

MORE INFO: Go to the Lowe’s Careers page.

CAREGIVER HIRING EVENT 

WHEN: Tuesday, April 26, 9am-4pm

WHERE: KWA Headquarters Building, 3625 Perkins Ln SW, Lakewood, WA 

WHAT: Meet with KWA Supervisors, participate in on-site interviews, get your questions answered, and start a meaningful career.

Job details: 

  • Competitive wage ($17-$19.37/hr)
  • Flexible work schedules
  • 100% paid home care aide
  • certification
  • Healthcare paid benefits-medical,
  • vision, and dental insurance
  • Direct deposit
  • No experience required – entry level
  • Paid time off
  • Weekend differential pay
  • Paid continued education training

QUESTIONS? Call 253.535.4202 or go to the KWA website.

~UPCOMING/CURRENT COMMUNITY OPPORTUNITIES & RESOURCES~

COMMUNITY RESOURCE FAIR

WHEN: Wednesday, April 13, 2022, 10am-2pm 

WHERE: Compass Housing Alliance, 77 S Washington St., Seattle 98104 

WHAT: Join Compass Housing Alliance and Neighborcare Health for help and information for healthcare, ID replacements, government phones, veterinary care, job placement, and more. 

MORE INFO: Contact Dean Frazier at Deanf@neighborcare.org or 206.548.3254.

FREE MEDICAL CARE FOR PEOPLE EXPERIENCING HOMELESSNESS 

WHEN: Wednesday, April 13, 2022, 10am-2pm

WHERE: North Aurora, 12255 Aurora Ave N, Seattle

WHAT: King County’s Mobile Medical Program provides walk-in care for people who are living homeless (or were recently homeless) only. Please try to arrive at least one hour before the scheduled end time for the clinic. On rare occasions the clinic will close earlier than the scheduled time. Call the Mobile Van nursing lines if you would like to confirm the clinic end time for a particular day.

Please note: Sites and available services are subject to change due to Mobile Medical’s involvement in the COVID-19 response. Please check King County’s Mobile Medical Care webpage for the latest information.

Upcoming Seattle dates: 

Upcoming South King County dates:

MORE INFO: Go to King County Mobile Medical Care or call 206.330.6775 for the Seattle Medical Van or 206.549.5562 for the South King County Medical Van.

RENT SMART HOUSING SEARCH SERIES: PART 3 – RENTING WITH AN EVICTION ON RECORD 

WHEN: Wednesday, April 13, 2022, 3-4:45pm

WHERE: Zoom

WHAT: This final installment of a three-part series on your housing search from Solid Ground will focus on how an individual is able to rent a dwelling with an eviction on their record. Learn what rights you have and successfully navigate to find housing.

A visiting attorney from the Tenant Law Center will also be on hand to help with answering questions.

If you are currently living in King County and being threatened with eviction, contact the Housing Justice Project for legal assistance at 206.267.7069 or hjpstaff@kcba.org.

TO REGISTER: Go to Rent Smart Housing Search Series: Part 3 – Renting with an Eviction on Record.

QUESTIONS? Contact Julia Gibson at jgibson@kcls.org.

FREE AND LOW-COST VETERINARY CARE

WHEN: Wednesday, April 13, 2022

WHERE: Real Change News / Compass Resource Fair, 96 S Main St, Seattle, WA

WHAT: Seattle Veterinary Outreach provides veterinary care for free to people experiencing homelessness and at a reduced cost for people living on low incomes. The organization is also currently partnering with Public Health – Seattle King County to provide free COVID vaccinations and booster shots to anyone regardless of income.

Veterinary care is provided on a first-come, first-served service. Pet owners are encouraged to arrive between 10-10:30am to secure a place in line.

This service is reserved for those experiencing homelessness or living with a low income, which is verified at clinics. Pet owners should bring their SNAP, EBT, WIC, SSI, or TANF cards. Alternatively, a letter confirming that the pet owner is living in subsidized housing or receiving housing vouchers is also acceptable.

Upcoming dates (all 11am-2pm):

MORE INFO: Visit the Seattle Veterinary Outreach Clinic Calendar.

FREE TRAINING FOR HEALTHCARE JOBS 

WHEN: Classes start April 18, 2022 

WHERE: Northgate Community Center, 10510 5th Ave NE, Seattle, WA 98125

WHAT: CareerWork$ Medical is offering a free 8-week training course for entry-level positions in the healthcare industry. Graduates earn non-clinical employment as patient services specialists, call center healthcare representatives, and healthcare billing specialists.  

Minimum eligibility: 

  • 18 years or older 
  • High school diploma or equivalent 
  • Basic computer skills 
  • English proficient; bilingual encouraged  

MORE INFO: Go to the CareerWork$ Medical website or text or call Lisa Niggemyer at 206.317.1017. 

FREE TAX HELP 

WHEN: February 2 – April 21, 2022

WHAT: United Way of King County’s Free Tax Preparation Campaign starts next Wednesday, February 2. IRS-certified volunteers will be available virtually and in person at multiple locations across King County to offer you free tax preparation assistance.

Are you an international student or do you have an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) instead of a social security number? We can help! Translation services will also be available if you need them. An appointment is not necessary for in-person services.

The due date to file your taxes, and for making tax payments, is April 18, 2022. 

MORE INFO: Go to the United Way of King County’s Tax Help webpage.

FREE BARISTA JOB TRAINING

WHEN: Starts April 25, 2020, and runs for seven weeks, Monday-Friday, 9-11am 

WHERE: Online 

WHAT: Free, part-time training program for young adults, 16-24 years old, experiencing homelessness or unstable housing. In addition to training with expert baristas, participants will get: 

  • paid during training 
  • ORCA card 
  • Food worker card 
  • Chromebook to participate and keep after graduation 
  • Job readiness and placement support 

QUESTIONS? Contact Antwanette King at aking@seattleymca.org.  

TO APPLY: Go to the Farestart website.

WELCOME TO MEDICARE WORKSHOP: UNDERSTAND YOUR OPTIONS!  

WHEN: June 7, 2022, 10am-12:30pm

WHERE: Zoom – Register to receive invitation

WHAT: Join this free webinar to learn about navigating Medicare. Topics covered include:

  • Medicare A, B, C, and D
  • Enrollment
  • Understanding your Medicare benefits and options
  • Medigaps (supplemental plans) and Medicare Advantage plans
  • Help paying for Medicare
  • Medicare fraud

The class is taught by Solid Ground SHIBA (Statewide Health Insurance Benefits Advisors) staff and volunteers. SHIBA provides free, unbiased, and confidential assistance with health care choices.

TO REGISTER: Go to Welcome to Medicare Workshop: Understand your options!

RENT SMART/¡INQUILINOS INTELIGENTES!

WHEN: All sessions are on Wednesdays, 2-4pm

WHERE: Zoom

WHAT: Virtual Renters’ Rights Workshop Series 

Rent Smart Webinars in English 

¡Inquilinos Inteligentes! Talleres Virtuales en Español

NEED MORE HELP? / ¿NECESITA MÁS AYUDA?

  • King County residents being threatened with eviction can contact the Housing Justice Project for legal assistance at 253.234.4204 or hjpstaff@kcba.org.
  • Si actualmente vive en el Condado de King y está siendo amenazado con el desalojo, comuníquese con el Proyecto de Justicia de Vivienda para obtener asistencia legal 253.234.4204 o hjpstaff@kcba.org.
  • Washington State residents can visit Solid Ground’s For Tenants website for self-help information, or call Solid Ground’s message-only Tenant Services Message Hotline, currently open Mondays, Tuesdays, and Thursdays, 10:30am – 1:30pm (hours and days are subject to change): 206.694.6767 | TTY: 7.1.1.
  • Los Residentes del Estado de Washington pueden visitar el sitio web Para Inquilinos de Solid Ground para obtener información de autoayuda, o llamar a la línea directa de mensajes de Servicios para Inquilinos de Solid Ground cual es abierta los lunes, martes, y jueves de 10:30 a.m. a 1:30 p.m. (las horas y los días están sujetos a cambios): 206.694.6767 | TTY: 7.1.1.

Rent Smart is offered in partnership with Solid Ground’s Tenant Services and the King County Library System (KCLS). / ¡Inquilinos Inteligentes! se ofrece en asociación con los Servicios para Inquilinos de Solid Ground y La Sistema Biblioteca del Condado de King (KCLS).

~JOBS WITH SOLID GROUND AND OUR PARTNERS~

SOLID GROUND JOB BOARD

WHAT: Join the Solid Ground team and help us fight poverty and dismantle systems of oppression! We are currently seeking candidates for these positions:

QUESTIONS? Learn more about Solid Ground and see other open positions on the Solid Ground Careers page.

$2,000 HIRING BONUS: SOLID GROUND TRANSPORTATION DRIVERS

WHAT: Join Solid Ground Transportation and help people across our communities access critical services and resources! Solid Ground’s paratransit drivers use wheelchair-accessible vans to transport passengers seven days a week. A CDL license is not required and driver classes are offered year round. Drivers hired before February 16, 2022, will be eligible for a $2,000 hiring bonus.

Benefits:

  • $18.94 per hour + $2,000 hiring bonus (Hiring bonus for new drivers hired before February 16, 2022)
  • No CDL required
  • Paid leave
  • Medical/Dental insurance
  • Disability, Basic Life Insurance & Employee Assistance Program at no cost to you
  • 401k retirement plan with employer contribution & match
  • Voluntary life insurance
  • Flexible Spending Account

TO APPLY: Visit Solid Ground Careers to see the full Bus Operator job description and submit your application and resume.

A collage of Solid Ground transportation drivers and their vans.

JOBS WITH ABBEY ARTS

WHAT: Abbey Arts is looking for people with positive energy and a strong worth ethic to help make the world a more creative and connected place. Applicants should love to:

  • Learn while doing (growth mindset)
  • Tackle creative challenges
  • Grow their own job & program within the organization
  • Think quickly & solve problems with limited resources
  • And of course increase access to help people of all ages and incomes experience music and the arts in a welcoming setting

All Abbey Staff have the opportunity to contribute to and/or lead select creative projects such as curating a show, helping design a poster or ad, contributing to program development, managing arts, and music events, etc.

Most positions here require typing speeds of at least 60 words per minute, familiarity with Google docs, ability to lift objects such as chairs/tables, setup event spaces, help with building reset, etc.

Open positions:

  • Sound Techs
  • Production Manager
  • House Managers
  • Event Assistants / Security
  • Venue Manager
  • Work Study and Internships

MORE INFO: Go to the Abbey Arts jobs page.

TO APPLY: send a simple resume and cover letter (or email introduction) to jobs@fremontabbey.org with “ABBEYJOB” in the subject line.

~ONGOING JOB OPPORTUNITIES~

HIRING FOR CRUISE AMBASSADORS 

WHAT: SMS Sea-Tac Cruise “Meet and Greet” ambassadors needed. Perfect for retirees, college/high school students, work-at-home parents/grandparents, or anyone looking for seasonal employment and supplemental income. 

Details: 

  • 2-4 shifts each week 
  • Flexible morning shifts, finishing in the early afternoon 
  • Starting late April – late October 
  • Ages 16-109 are welcome! 
  • Starting at $20/hr 

Duties: 

  • Looking for energetic, dependable people to welcome cruise passengers 
  • Greet and check-in cruise guests who arrive at Sea-Tac Airport and direct them to the buses which will take them to the piers to board their cruise ships 

TO APPLY: Go to the SMS careers page.

JOBS FOR COOKS AT T-MOBILE PARK 

WHAT: Marination is a concessionaire at T-Mobile Park, home of the Seattle Mariners this upcoming baseball season. The company is looking for hard-working, fun, and reliable cooks to join the Marination team and work home baseball games. Pay is $25-$30/hour depending on experience and there is an end-of-season bonus for those cooks and managers who commit to working the duration of the baseball season. 

TO APPLY: Contact Marination at work@marinationmobile.com or by texting 206.390.8591.

AMAZON WAREHOUSE JOBS

WHAT: Amazon is now hiring students for a variety of hourly positions in Washington State with multiple shift options available. Find your perfect schedule that works around your classes!

We are offering:

  • Part-Time (20-25 hours/week)
  • Full-Time (40 hours/week)
  • Flexible scheduling (one shift/month and up to 25 hours/week)
  • $15.75-$19.75/hr

APPLY NOW! We’ve innovated the job application so it’s faster, easier, and hopefully even a little fun!

MORE INFO/QUESTIONS? Contact Lilly Thompson, Amazon Workforce Staffing, at lillthom@amazon.com.

KWA CAREGIVER OPPORTUNITIES

WHAT: Korean Women’s Association (KWA) is seeking full- and part-time Home Care Aides (Caregivers). Do you want to align yourself with a nonprofit social services agency that is dedicated to making life’s transitions a little easier? Do you like to help elderly and disabled people with their daily activities? Do you want a fulfilling job that makes a difference you can see immediately? Become a KWA Caregiver!

Here’s why caregivers want to work for KWA:

  • Competitive starting wage of $19.37/hour
  • Flexible hours/scheduling available
  • No experience required, entry level
  • Direct deposit
  • Paid benefits: medical, vision, and dental insurance with qualifying hours
  • 100% paid Home Care Aide Certification training
  • Paid continued education training
  • Paid time off
  • Mileage reimbursement
  • Paid travel time between clients
  • Weekend differential pay
  • Employee recognition and bonus referral programs
  • Free caregiver shoes (after working two consecutive months of 80+ hrs, and 80 hrs in current eligibility month)

Qualifications:

  • No experience required
  • Minimum 18 years old
  • Valid WA driver’s license and auto insurance in your own name
  • Must be able to pass a criminal background check
  • Able to transport clients to appointments and errands using your own vehicle, as needed
  • Willing and able to provide compassionate care to people in vulnerable situations
  • Able to communicate with people in a friendly and caring manner

APPLY TODAY! Current KWA job listings; KWA is an equal opportunity employer.

~SEA-TAC JOB OPPORTUNITIES~

JOBS AT SEA-TAC AIRPORT RESTAURANT 

WHAT: Lucky Louie Fish Shack is hiring for its Sea-Tac airport location. 

Open positions:  

  • Cashier/Customer Service – $17.60/hr + tips
  • Line Cook – $17.85/hr + tips
  • Prep Cook – $17.85/hr + tips

Benefits:  

  • Health benefit eligibility 
  • Paid time off and paid holidays 
  • Free meals while working 
  • Paid parking pass or equivalent bus pass  

Details:  

  • Must be 18 years or older 
  • Ability to read, write, and speak English fluently 
  • Able to pass TSA background check for badging 
  • Valid WA Food Handler’s Permit  
  • High energy, fun and respectful workplace  

TO APPLY: Email resume to luckylouiefishshack@gmail.com or call 206.277.9660.  

** Airport Jobs is a program of Port Jobs.  Port Jobs is not the hiring employer for this event.  Port Jobs is not responsible for the actions of the hiring employer. **

FEDEX EXPRESS IS HIRING 

WHAT: FedEx Express is hiring part-time handler non-DOT and material handler positions.

Benefits: 

  • Starting pay:
    • Handler Non-DOT: $21.15/hr
    • Material Handler: $22.14/hr
  • Health benefits
  • $5250 Tuition assistance program
  • Promote from within philosophy
  • Training and growth opportunities

Applicant eligibility 

  • Must be at least 18 years old
  • No minimum education requirements
  • Valid driver’s license required for Material Handler position
  • Must be able to lift 50 pounds
  • Subject to criminal background check and drug screen
  • Must have lived in the United States for the last 5 years
  • Must provide 5-year residential and work history
  • Must have two forms of unexpired government-issued ID

TO APPLY: To apply text FXE98158 to 3.3.0.1.1 or visit the FexEx careers webpage and search for “Handler” or “Material Handler” in SeaTac, WA.

** Airport Jobs is a program of Port Jobs.  Port Jobs is not the hiring employer for this event.  Port Jobs is not responsible for the actions of the hiring employer. **

BAMBUZA IS HIRING 

WHAT: Bambuza is seeking to hire cashiers, cooks and supervisors.

Positions:

  • Cashiers and Cooks – $17.59/hr + tips
  • Supervisors – Depends on experience

Requirements:

  • Must be 18 years or older
  • Ability to read, write, and speak English fluently
  • Able to pass background check for badging
  • Experience in a busy work environment
  • Prior food service experience preferred
  • Strong customer service skills
  • Able to run a cash register
  • Food Handlers Permit and Alcohol Serving Permits required to start work

Benefits:

  • Paid parking
  • Employee meals
  • Flexible schedules
  • Recruitment bonus
  • Holiday pay

TO APPLY: Send resume to jobs@bambuza.com or call/text the recruiter at 206.913.9196.

** Airport Jobs is a program of Port Jobs.  Port Jobs is not the hiring employer for this event.  Port Jobs is not responsible for the actions of the hiring employer. **

~ONGOING OPPORTUNITIES & RESOURCES~

GROWING FOOD WITH SNAP BENEFITS

WHAT: Did you know you can use your SNAP benefits to buy seeds and food-producing plants, like tomato seedlings, from certain stores? Check out this recent article from Crosscut: “For some WA families, gardening starts with food benefits.”

MORE INFO: Go to SNAP Gardens.

FREE BIKES AND HELMETS

WHAT: Bike Work’s Bikes-For-All program provides free rebuilt bicycles and helmets to youth, adults, and families living in Southeast Seattle who are facing barriers. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis and fulfilled on a first come, first serve basis. Income limits apply.

MORE INFO: Go to the Bikes-For-All page.

FREE LYFT RIDES IN KING COUNTY

WHAT: Crisis Connections is now offering FREE Lyft rides for medical, job, housing, food, legal and other purposes through the Ride United program. To qualify, rides must originate within King County but outside of Seattle. Ride United covers fares up to $22 each way, for a total of $44 round trip.

Requirements:

  • Rides must be for non-emergency medical, job, housing, food, and other transportation needs
  • Rides must originate in King County but outside Seattle
  • Rider must able to get to and from the designated pick-up location
  • Rider must live in an area where Lyft is available
  • Rider must be 18+ years old or accompanied by a guardian
  • Everyone in the vehicle MUST wear face coverings, leave the front passenger seat empty, and keep windows down when possible.

MORE INFO: Visit Crisis Connections’s Ride United page.

TO SIGN UP: Call 2.1.1.

FREE FRUITS AND VEGATABLES FOR SNAP USERS

WHERE: More than 200 Safeway stores in Washington state.

WHAT: For a limited time, customers with Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits can get a coupon for $10 off fresh fruits and vegetables when they spend $10 or more in SNAP benefits on fresh or frozen produce at Safeway stores. Safeway has also announced that all its stores now welcome SNAP EBT payments, and shoppers can arrange for home delivery or pick up at the store with DriveUp & Go.

MORE INFO: Learn more about SNAP Produce Match on the Washington state Department of Health website.

FREE FLU SHOTS FOR VETS

WHAT: It’s now easier than ever for veterans to get their influenza vaccine. In addition to VA medical facilities across the country, flu shots are now available at no cost for eligible Veterans at more than 70,000 in-network community providers nationwide.  You may also be able to get your COVID-19 vaccine during the same visit.

Check out this video, Veteran Community Care Flu Shots, to find out more.

NEW INTAKE PHONE NUMBER FOR PEOPLE EXPERIENCING HOMELESSNESS 

WHAT: Solid Ground’s Regional Access Point has a new phone number: 206.694.6833.

The Regional Access Point (RAP) serves people who are currently experiencing homelessness in King County, including those currently living on the streets, in a shelter, in a vehicle, or in a place not meant for human habitation. The RAP also serves people fleeing – or attempting to flee – domestic violence.

RAP staff are available to help eligible participants in completing the Coordinated Entry for All housing assessments. They also serve participants with diversion move-in assistance once they have found a unit and they have been approved for move-in.

Solid Ground’s RAP experienced an interruption in its intake phone line in December and has launched a new phone number to continue to serve people experiencing homelessness. That number is 206.694.6833. The RAP hours of operation are Monday-Friday, 8:30am-5pm, excluding holidays. RAP staff will respond to voice messages within two business days.

HELP PAYING ENERGY BILLS IN KING COUNTY 

WHAT: Your family’s monthly income may qualify you for free or low-cost energy services. Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) is a federally funded program administered by Byrd Barr Place that helps low-income households to meet their immediate home energy needs.

LIHEAP assistance is now available year-round. You may now be eligible to receive assistance once every 12 months.

  • Customers in Seattle: Call 800.756.5437 (Public Health — Seattle & King County CHAP Line) for assistance.
  • Customers in South King County: Call Multi-Service Center at 253.517.2263.
  • Customers in North King County (North of NE 145th St.) and East King County: Call Hopelink at 425.658.2592.

DISCOUNTS ON UTILITY BILLS 

WHAT: The Utility Discount Program (UDP) helps you get current and stay current on utility payments by offering a discount of up to 60% on your Seattle City Light bill and a 50% discount on your Seattle Public Utilities bill. This program is available for residential City Light and Seattle Public Utilities customers only.

You may be eligible: 

  • If you have a City of Seattle light bill
  • If you are the homeowner or renter (If your landlord pays all utilities, qualifying low-income tenants may still be eligible for utility financial help)
  • If you meet certain requirements for household size, gross monthly income, and gross yearly income.

Go to King County’s Energy Assistance webpage for details on eligibility.

To apply, gather and complete the following documents:

  • Signed and dated City of Seattle application.
  • Gross income documentation from all sources for all household members age 18 or older for the last month prior to the date of your signature on your completed application.
  • Monthly housing expenses including:
    • Lease/Rental agreement and current rent payment receipt – required; or
    • Mortgage (payment coupon) or tax statement – required
  • Copy of state driver(s) license or state identification card for everyone in household 18 years and over.
  • Financial aid award(s); grants and loans verification:
  • Check stubs from work-study employment

Send your completed application to:

QUESTIONS? Contact the Access and Outreach Team or call the Community Health Access Program (CHAP) at 1.800.756.5437.

GET HELP WITH MEDICARE AND MEDICAID

WHAT: Solid Ground is now the Statewide Health Insurance Benefits Advisors (SHIBA) sponsor for King County!

SHIBA is a free, unbiased and confidential counseling service offered by the Washington state Office of the Insurance Commissioner. Our trained volunteers help consumers understand their Medicare rights and options. We offer information on Medigap (Medicare Supplement) and Medicare Advantage plans, Medicaid programs, employment-related health benefits, long-term care options, fraud and abuse, and much more.

The Statewide Health Insurance Benefits Advisors (SHIBA) can help you:

  • Find Medicare options that meet your personal needs
  • Learn about your Medicare rights and options
  • Compare Medicare plans and prices
  • Report health care fraud and abuse

TO GET HELP: Call 206.753.4806 or 1.800.562.6900, email shiba@solid-ground.org, or visit the SHIBA section on Solid Ground’s website.

CHILD CARE AWARE OF WASHINGTON FAMILY CENTER

WHAT: The Child Care Aware of Washington Family Center is a statewide call center assisting families in finding licensed child care providers, navigating child care financial assistance options, finding alternative forms of care, and connecting families to COVID-related resources in their community. We also assist families to navigate the state subsidy system, including connecting families experiencing homelessness with the Washington State Department of Children, Youth, and Families (DCYF) Working Connections Homeless Grace Period (HGP), which may authorize 12 months of child care subsidy without a copay.

What this means for families:

  • Experiencing homelessness and income verification are the only eligibility criteria to obtain child care subsidy.
  • DCYF will authorize the family for full-time care.
  • Families will have 12 months to participate in employment activities to reauthorize for Working Connections after the grace period ends.
  • No copay will be required during the grace period.

MORE INFO/HELP: We are able to assist families over the phone in multiple languages! Call 1.800.446.1114 for assistance Monday-Friday 8:30am – 4:30pm or email familycenter@childcare.org.

CORONAVIRUS RESOURCES FOR SEATTLE, KING CO, & WA STATE

WHAT: Visit Solid Ground’s Coronavirus Resources webpage with regularly updated resources and information for Seattle, King County, and Washington State, or call our main phone line at 206.694.6700.

COMCAST INTERNET ESSENTIALS

WHAT: Comcast’s Internet Essentials program is the largest, most comprehensive, and most successful broadband adoption program in the nation. It provides low-cost internet ($9.95/month) to low-income families and individuals within the Comcast service area. New customers who apply before Dec. 31, 2021, receive their first two months of Internet Essentials for free.

Eligibility: To qualify, applicants simply need to show they participate in one of more than a dozen different government assistance programs, including:

  • Medicaid
  • Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)
  • Supplemental Security Income (SSI)

Comcast also accepts applications from households that:

  • have a student eligible for the National School Lunch Program
  • live in public housing
  • receive HUD Housing Assistance (including Section 8 vouchers)
  • participate in the Veterans Pension Program, as well as low-income seniors in select pilot markets

MORE INFO/TO APPLY: Visit the Internet Essentials website for eligibility information and an application – or call 1.855.846.8376.

FAMILY MATTERS CLINIC FOR LGBTQ+ FAMILIES

WHEN/WHERE: Ongoing; meeting times and locations are set when families are matched with attorneys

WHAT: QLaw Foundation supports all of the ways that our community makes families. We serve parents who are low income, QTPOC, formerly incarcerated, trans/nonbinary, poly, immigrant/refugee, and/or living with disabilities. We have no limitations based on citizenship or income level.

The Family Matters clinic for LGBTQ+ families in King County is a full-representation clinic for:

  • people who are parenting, but who don’t have legal recognition of their role
  • families recognized under Washington law who want an adoption or parentage order just to be safe
  • families parenting kids from their partner’s prior relationship
  • parents not married to the kids’ other parent who want to make sure their relationship with the children is protected in a worst-case scenario
  • families with three or four (or more!) people parenting children who want to make sure each parent has legal recognition

REGISTER NOW!

MORE INFO: Contact info@qlawfoundation.org or 206.483.2725.

FINANCIAL AID VIA WA STUDENT ACHIEVEMENT COUNCIL

WHAT: The Washington Student Achievement Council (WSAC) is committed to increasing educational opportunities and attainment in Washington State. Apply for financial aid for the 2021-22 school year to get education or training to expand your options during uncertain times. Given the ongoing economic uncertainty caused by COVID-19, education after high school is more important than ever. Filing a financial aid application gives people more options for the future.

APPLY NOW! Fill out 2021/2022 WAFSA (Washington Application for State Financial Aid) and/or a 2021/2022 FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) online form as soon as possible. Don’t wait to find out if you’ve been admitted!

CONTACT: Katie Tallman, Senior Communications Consultant, at 360.753.7859 or katiet@wsac.wa.gov.

JOB SEEKERS’ VIRTUAL WORKSHOPS – MULTILINGUAL

WHAT: WorkSource hosts free virtual workshops for job seekers in multiple languages on topics such as Financial capabilities, Interviewing Techniques, Job-Search Strategies, Perfecting Applications, Résumé and Cover Letters, Skills and Abilities Analysis, Strategies for Success, and more.

MORE INFO: See all upcoming free workshops for job seekers in King County on the WorkSource workshop calendar.

HOMELESSNESS PREVENTION FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE FOR VETERANS

WHAT: Supportive Services for Veteran Families (SSVF) has funds to provide financial assistance to eligible veterans at risk of experiencing homelessness during the COVID-19 outbreak. Veterans must meet the following criteria and be able to provide verification to qualify for assistance.

Eligibility criteria:

  • Income: 50% AMI max (see chart below)
  • Military Service: 1 day active duty, any discharge except Dishonorable (Reserves/National Guard ineligible, unless federally activated)
  • Housing Loss: Documented risk of housing loss within 30 days (does not need to be COVID-19-related)

Current AMI income monthly limits by family size:

  • 1 person = $3,483
  • 2 people = $3,983
  • 3 people = $4,479
  • 4 people = $4,975
  • 5 people = $5,375
  • 6 people = $5,775
  • 7 people = $6,170
  • 8 people = $6,570

QUESTIONS/CONTACT: Please reach out any of the following agencies for assistance.

  • SSVF (a program of SOUND): 206.545.2344
  • Catholic Community Services (CCS): 206.858.1148 or 253.850.2507
  • YWCA Seattle | King | Snohomish: 425.264.1426

KING COUNTY HOMELESSNESS EMPLOYMENT SERVICES

WHAT: TRAC Associates is a leader in providing employment services for job seekers and employers since 1983. We assist job seekers with the changing needs of employers and the labor market through programs designed to assist people experiencing homelessness, poverty, and disadvantageous/disabling conditions – and we’re adapting our meeting protocols and spaces to keep both our clients and staff safe and healthy.

Employment barriers we assist with include: Obtaining Driver’s Licenses, IDs and Birth Certificates; Transportation; Phone and Email; Job Searches and Applications; Interview and Work Clothes; Hygiene Items; Haircuts; Classes and Trainings; Résumés and Cover Letters; Interviewing Skills; Workplace Issues; Life Skills; Advocacy; Financial Coaching; Connecting to Housing Case Management; Finding any other resource you need to be successful!

TRAC programs for job seekers include:

  • Supported Employment – Vulnerable Populations, Substance Use Disordoer (SUD) and Mental Health (MH), folks in Recovery – Foundational Community Support / Medicaid
  • TRAC to Work – Homeless Employment Program – United Way JobsConnect
  • BFET – Basic Food, Employment, and Training – for people receiving food benefits
  • ORIA – Office of Refugee and Immigrant Assistance
  • WIOA – Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act – for unemployed adults, dislocated workers, seniors, and caregivers
  • Ticket To Work – SSI / SSDI recipients
  • CLEVER – Career Ladder for Educated and Vocationally Experienced Refugees
  • Healthcare Workforce for the Future
  • Community Jobs – for Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) recipients

MORE INFO: Contact Carrie Lewis, TRAC Associates Employment Specialist, at carrie@tracassoc.com or 206.466.7432.

ORCA LIFT SUBSIDIZED ANNUAL PASS

WHAT: Freedom and possibilities through transit! King County Metro and Sound Transit have partnered to create a new, subsidized annual pass program, allowing qualified riders to travel on select transit in our region with subsidized fares.

Eligibility – Customers who reside in King, Pierce, or Snohomish County and are enrolled in one of the six state benefit programs:

  • Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF)/State Family Assistance (SFA)
  • Refugee Cash Assistance (RCA)
  • Aged, Blind, or Disabled Cash Assistance (ABD)
  • Pregnant Women Assistance (PWA)
  • Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
  • Housing & Essential Needs (HEN)

APPLY NOW! For more information or to see if you qualify, visit Washington Connection or call 877.501.2233. Expansions are expected in 2022 to serve more customers that have household incomes at or below 80% of the federal poverty level.

SAFELINK WIRELESS SMARTPHONES & DATA PLANS

WHAT: Coordinated Care of Washington, Inc. is proud to be working with SafeLink Wireless/ LifeLine program at no cost to eligible customers receiving unemployment benefits. Customers may qualify for SafeLink service by submitting a notice of unemployment benefit payments that at a minimum includes: 1) Name, 2) Household’s current income information, 3) Dated within the last 3 months.

With SafeLink Health Solutions®, eligible customers will get:

  • A free smartphone, 3GB of data, and 350 monthly minutes*
  • Unlimited text messages with health tips and reminders
  • Calls to Coordinated Care Member Services will not count toward your 350 minutes
  • Note you must make at least one phone call or send a text message each month in order to keep your LifeLine benefits.
  • Already have your own phone? Choose the keep your own smartphone** program and receive a sim card at no cost.

APPLY/MORE INFO: Enroll in the Coordinated Care Phone Program or call SafeLink at 1.877.631.2550.

*Unused minutes and data will not carry over from month-to-month. A month equals 30 days.

**To keep your own smartphone, you must have a compatible Global System for Mobile Communication (GSM) phone (which includes T-Mobile and AT&T compatible phones). Your phone must also be unlocked. Several other carriers also use GSM networks. To confirm yours is included, call your carrier.

TECH JOB SKILLS TRAINING IN SEATTLE-KING CO.

NONPROFIT ORGANIZATION PROGRAMS (free )

  • Ada Developers Academy – Nonprofit coding bootcamp offering women and gender diverse people ages 18+ training in Software/Web/Mobile App Development. Length/Frequency: 11 months (6-month class/5-month internship), full-time M-F
  • Apprenti – WTIA nonprofit offers diverse, underrepresented populations ages 18+ training and apprenticeships in: Web/Software Development, Network Security, Windows or Linux Systems Administration, and IT Tech Support or Cloud Tech Support. Length/Frequency: 10 months (4-month class/6-month paid apprenticeship), full-time M-F
  • Digital Skills for All – Nonprofit initiative offering multiple programs to provide underserved youth ages 16-24 with the computer science skills they need to succeed in entry-level technology job opportunities. Length/Frequency: 12-18 months, depending on program
  • Generation USA Training Accelerator – In partnership with South Seattle College, offering residents ages 18+ in King County job training in two tech career pathways: IT Help Desk Technician and Junior Web Developer. Length/Frequency: 11-12 weeks, Full-time M-F
  • Urban League of Metropolitan Seattle InfoTech program – Nonprofit offers long-term unemployed adults ages 18+ job training to become certified in Cloud Computing via the Amazon Web Services (AWS) platform. Length/Frequency: 6 weeks, Full-Time M-F
  • Year Up Puget Sound – Nonprofit offering low-income, young adults ages 18-26 job training and internships in three different tech career pathways: Software Development and Testing/QA, IT/Network Support, and Business Operations and Project Management Support. Length/Frequency: 12 months (6-month class and 6-month internship), Full-Time M-F

TECHNICAL and COMMUNITY COLLEGE PROGRAMS (reduced/free tuition might be available for qualifying individuals through the Washington State Board for Community and Technical Colleges’ Workforce Transitions Support programs)

MORE INFO/QUESTIONS? Visit the Communities of Opportunity (COO) website or contact Dan Bernard, Communities of Opportunity Employment Manager, at dan.bernard@kingcounty.gov.

WA STATE PAID FAMILY & MEDICAL LEAVE

WHAT: Paid Family & Medical Leave is available for Washington State residents when you need time off to care for yourself or a family member. There are three main types of paid leave available: Medical Leave, Family Leave, and Military Leave. Each one is related to a different type of “qualifying event” – the thing that happens to you or a family member that qualifies you for paid leave.

MORE INFO/TO APPLY: Visit the Washington State Paid Family & Medical Leave website to find out how it works and to apply, or email paidleave@esd.wa.gov with your questions.

WA STATE RECOVERY HELP LINE: 1.866.789.1511

WHAT: The Washington Recovery Help Line is a free, confidential 24-hour, statewide helpline for substance abuse, problem gambling, and mental health. Visit www.waRecoveryHelpLine.org for resources (a service of Crisis Connections and the WA State DSHS). We offer: 1) Free and confidential support, 2) Connection to local treatment providers, 3) Medication for opioid use referrals, 4) DSHS benefits application assistance.

CONTACT/MORE INFO: Email us at recovery@crisisconnections.org. Crisis Connections (9725 3rd Ave NE, Suite 300, Seattle, WA 98115)

WA STATE UNEMPLOYMENT INSURANCE (UI) ELIGIBILITY

WHAT: WA State Employment Security has new information to help you find out if you’re eligible for unemployment benefits. Here are the steps:

1) Find out what you’re eligible for.

2) Eligible for regular UI? Apply as soon as possible! Before you apply:

  • Download the Unemployment Benefits Application Checklist
  • Gather all the info you’ll need for your application.
  • Make sure you read and understand all the materials.
  • Can’t get regular UI? You might be eligible for expanded benefits under the federal CARES Act (see below).

3) Set up your Secure Access Washington (SAW) account.

  • Watch Creating a SAW Account for Unemployment Insurance: This 9-minute video tutorial may save you a lot of time – especially if there’s a chance you may already have a SAW account. That can cause issues that are tricky to fix down the road.

‘YOUR NEXT JOB’ SERVICE

WHAT: Your Next Job is a new service at The Seattle Public Library that can help job seekers: 1) Get started with unemployment, 2) Search​ for jobs, 3) Apply for jobs, and 4) Learn new job skills. Through one-on-one appointments via phone, text, or online conferencing, we can help job seekers to be successful on career and educational pathways, including job seekers with little or no digital literacy skills and those with limited English proficiency in Mandarin and Russian (and hope to add additional in-language services in July).

We can help people with:

  • computer basics, such as using email
  • creating a SAW (Secure Access Washington) account to start an unemployment claim
  • navigating online resources

Please note, we cannot help troubleshoot devices, fill out unemployment applications, or answer questions about existing claims.

MAKE AN APPOINTMENT: To make a Your Next Job appointment for yourself or someone you are assisting, please call 206.386.4636, email ask@spl.org, or complete the intake form on our website. We can answer questions by phone in the following languages: Amharic, Arabic, Cantonese, French, Hindi, Hmong, Italian, Japanese, Khmer, Korean, Laotian, Mandarin, Oromo, Russian, Spanish, Somali, Tagalog, Thai, Tigrinya, and Vietnamese.

MORE RESOURCES:

Your Next Job is offered in partnership with King County Library System and Seattle Jobs Initiative.

YOUTH SUICIDE PREVENTION – FREE COACHING FOR STUDENTS

WHAT: Crisis Connections is excited to offer free trainings in partnership with local cities. Our qualified trainers encourage students to talk openly about stress, coping, depression, and suicidal behavior. These trainings can also be delivered virtually; please call to see if you are in an eligible area.

Trainers include information on:

  • youth suicide
  • an overview of local resources
  • help for teens to identify warning signs
  • how to support themselves and others who may be dealing with mental health challenges

MORE INFO: Please contact Crisis Connections at 206.204.9520 or training@crisisconnections.org to schedule a training or get more information.

Photo at top by SDOT Photos on Flickr. Used under Creative Commons license.

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