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Jobs and Community Resources – 3/2/22

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~NEW THIS WEEK~

TENANT PROTECTIONS AFTER THE EVICTION MORATORIUM

WHAT: Seattle’s eviction moratorium has ended, but there are still additional eviction protections in place for renters in the city. Those include:

  • COVID-related inability to pay: Bans eviction of tenants with delinquent rent accrued between March 3, 2020, and the end of the moratorium.
  • School year moratorium: Bans evictions from September to June for households with students (childcare – under 18), educators, and employees of schools.

If you get an eviction notice, call the Renting in Seattle Helpline, 206.684.5700. They will review your notice to see if it complies with city regulations and refer you to resources. You can also call 2.1.1 for the most up-to-date rent assistances resources.

Remember: As a renter, you have a right to counsel when facing eviction. If you are being evicted and cannot afford an attorney, the Housing Justice Project may be able to help you. Call HJP directly at 206.267.7069 or email hjpstaff@kcba.org.

MORE INFO: Call the Renting in Seattle Help Line at 206.684.5700 or go to the Renting in Seattle homepage.

DSHS COMMUNITY SERVICE OFFICES REOPEN FOR FULL IN-PERSON SERVICES 

WHERE: Go to the DSHS Office Locator to find the location nearest you. 

WHAT: The Department of Social and Health Services‘ Community Services Offices have re-opened for full on-demand, in-person services. At your local Community Services Office, you can:

  • Apply for benefits or complete eligibility review without filling out a paper or online form. 
  • Before 2pm: Pick up an EBT card in the office. 
  • Before 3pm: Complete an interview for benefits (application/eligibility review/mid-certification review). 
  • Get case information or report changes. 
  • Request a replacement EBT card. 
  • Reach a case manager or social worker. 

QUESTIONS? Call the Customer Service Contact Center at 877.501.2233. 

MORE INFO: Go to WashingtonConnection.org.

INFO SESSION FOR PRE-APPRENTICESHIP CONSTRUCTION TRAINING 

WHEN: Wednesday, March 2 or 9, 1pm

WHERE: SCC Wood Technology Center, 2310 S. Lane Street, Seattle, 98144 

WHAT: This walk-in information and admission session is mandatory for students applying for the program. Classes will be held daily, Monday-Friday, 8am-4pm, for 11 weeks starting April 4, 2022. The cost of this training program is 100% covered if you meet program requirements and are eligible for SCC workforce education grant funding for those with low incomes. Multiple low-income workforce education funding programs are available, including: WorkFirst, Worker Retraining program, and Basic Food Employment and  Training program (BFET). 

Minimum requirements include: 

  • 18+ years old 
  • Able to complete and pass pre-screening drug test 
  • GED or high school diploma 
  • WA State Driver’s License 
  • Have reliable transportation 
  • Available to attend all daily classes 
  • Attend info and interview sessions 
  • Construction experience NOT required 

MORE INFO: Pre-Apprenticeship Construction Training

QUESTIONS: Contact jerry.jordan@seattlecolleges.edu or 206.934.4942 or neecee.davis@seattlecolleges.edu or 206.934.5460. 

PREP/LINE COOKS WANTED AT SEA-TAC 

WHEN: Friday, March 4, 2022, 10am-1pm 

WHERE: Airport University Classroom at Sea-Tac Airport: From ticketing level, locate the Starbucks near Security Checkpoint #3. Go down the hallway on the left of the Starbucks counters and take the elevator to Floor 2, which will open across from the Airport University classroom and the event. General Parking will be validated. Please bring your parking ticket with you.  

WHAT: SeaTac Bar Group is holding open interviews for prep/line cooks. Pay is $19.23/hr. Full-time and part-time positions are available.

Requirements: 

  • At least 18 years of age
  • Must have high school diploma or equivalent
  • Excellent customer service and communication skills  
  • Able to read, write and speak English
  • Medical, Dental, and Vision Benefits for full time employees, after probation
  • Will require valid WA State Food Handler’s Permit
  • Must be available to work variable shifts including weekends and holidays

TO APPLY: Send resume and cover letter to seatacresumes@gmail.com. 

 ** 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. ** 

 MARITIME SHIPYARD WELDING JOB TRAINING PROGRAM  

WHEN: In-person daily classes held Monday-Friday, 8am-2pm, for six months starting April 4, 2022.

WHERE: SSC/Vigor Harbor Island Training Center, 1731 13th Ave SW, Seattle, WA 98134 

WHAT: The cost of this training program is 100% covered if you meet program requirements and are eligible for SSC workforce education grant funding for those with low incomes. Multiple low-income workforce education funding programs are available, including: WorkFirst, Worker Retraining program, and Basic Food Employment and Training program (BFET). 

Minimum requirements include: 

  • 18+ years old 
  • High school diploma or GED 
  • Mechanical abilities and interests 
  • English Language Learners (ELL) at level 3 or higher 
  • Math skills at a pre-algebra level 
  • Additional eligibility requirements may apply 

MORE INFO: Maritime Shipyard Welding at the Harbor Island Training Center.

QUESTIONS? Contact Michelle McBreen at michelle.mcbreen@seattlecolleges.edu. 

RENT SMART HOUSING SEARCH SERIES: PART 1 – LOOKING FOR HOUSING

WHEN: Wednesday, March 9, 2022, 3pm-4:45pm

WHERE: Zoom

WHAT: This first installment of a three-part series on your housing search  will focus on where to search for housing, information regarding how tenants are screened, best tips for finding a rental, tax credit housing, and information about holding deposits when applying for a rental.

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 1-Looking for Housing

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

~UPCOMING/CURRENT COMMUNITY OPPORTUNITIES & RESOURCES~

FREE MEDICAL CARE FOR PEOPLE EXPERIENCING HOMELESSNESS 

WHEN: Wednesday, March 2, 2022, 10am-2pm

WHERE: Real Change, 96 S Main St, 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.

FREE AND LOW-COST VETERINARY CARE

WHEN: Wednesday, March 2, 2022, 11am-2pm

WHERE: Transform Burien, ​15623 Des Moines Memorial Dr, Burien, WA 98148

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.

Other upcoming dates (all 11am-2pm)

MORE INFO: Visit the Seattle Veterinary Outreach Clinic Calendar.

WELCOME TO MEDICARE WORKSHOP: UNDERSTAND YOUR OPTIONS!  

WHEN: Monday, March 14, 2022, 10am-12pm

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!

FREE AT-HOME COVID-19 TEST KITS 

WHAT: The Washington State Department of Health is again offering free, rapid, at-home COVID-19 test kits to residents of eligible communities while supplies last. To find out if you are eligible for the free tests, go to the Say Yes! COVID Test website and enter your zip code. You can also request free tests from the federal government at COVIDtests.gov.  

Reasons to have a COVID-19 test available at home: 

  • You can help reduce COVID-19 spread by testing at home and getting results in just minutes.
  • People who don’t have symptoms can still spread COVID-19, so testing is critical to knowing if you’re infected.
  • Along with vaccination, wearing a mask, hand washing, and physical distancing, frequent at-home testing protects our loved ones.
  • Know more, live safer, and get back to the people and things you love sooner.

Vaccination, along with testing, is the best way of preventing COVID-19 spread. COVID-19 vaccines are safe and effective at preventing infections, hospitalizations, and deaths. However, even fully vaccinated people have a chance of becoming infected and spreading the virus, so testing remains important for everyone. 

Anyone age 5 and older is now eligible for vaccination. COVID-19 vaccines are free of charge to everyone living in the US, regardless of immigration or health insurance status. 

MORE INFO: Say Yes! COVID Test

SEATTLE TICKET DEBT REDUCTION HEARINGS 

WHEN: Thursdays, 11am-1pm 

WHAT: Starting on Thursday, February 3, the Seattle Municipal Court will offer hearings for people with low incomes who can’t afford to pay their debt from overdue Seattle parking, traffic, or camera tickets. These hearings are an opportunity for people with ticket debt to speak with a court magistrate to request to reduce their fines and remove their tickets from collections.
 
Hearings will be held by telephone every Thursday from 11am to 1pm.  

TO REGISTER: Go to the Seattle Municipal Court’s Ticket Debt Reduction webpage or call 206.684.8747, Monday through Friday, from 8:30am to 4pm.  

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 payment, is April 18, 2022. 

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

FREE CITIZENSHIP CLASSES

WHEN: Various dates through March 17, 2022

WHAT: The International Rescue Committee is offering free citizenship classes through March.

Optional dates/times:

  • Mondays 1-3pm in the SeaTac area (in person)
  • Tuesdays 1-2:30pm on Zoom
  • Wednesdays 6:15-7:30pm
  • Thursdays 1-2:30pm (English practice for citizenship)

MORE INFO: Email Alysan Croydon at alysan.croydon@rescue.org or call 512.609.0413.

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~

FAMILY WORKS HIRING DONOR ADMINISTRATOR/ANNUAL GIFT MANAGER

WHAT: The Donor Administrator/Annual Gift Manager will be responsible for campaign management and cultivating relationships with existing gift donors and identifying new prospects. Will manage annual giving, including direct mail, online and social media campaigns. Responsible for collaborating with accounting and completing processes and projects related to entering and the coding of gifts.

MORE INFO: Go to Family Works Job Opportunities.

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.

~ONGOING JOB OPPORTUNITIES~

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. **

HUNTLEIGH JOB FAIR

WHEN: Tuesday, February 15, 2022, 10am-1pm

WHERE: Airport University Classroom at Sea-Tac Airport: From ticketing level, locate the Starbucks near Security Checkpoint #3.  Go down the hallway on the left of the Starbucks counters and take the elevator to Floor 2, which will open across from the Airport University Classroom and the event. General Parking will be validated.  Please bring your parking ticket with you.

WHAT: Huntleigh is holding an open interview and hiring event at Sea-Tac. Bring your resume.

Positions:

  • Aircraft Cleaner – $18/hr
  • Janitorial – $17.89/hr
  • Wheelchair Agent – $14.70/hr-$17.54/hr
  • Aircraft Access Guard – $18.28/hr
    • Washington State Driver’s License preferred
  • Charter Screener – $18/hr
    • Must be U.S. Citizen and have valid Washington State Driver’s License

Benefits:

  • Medical/Dental/Vision
  • Vacation and Sick Leave

Minimum  Qualifications:

  • Age 18 or older
  • Able to read and understand English
  • Must have valid documentation and ID
  • Variable shifts, including weekends, holidays and on-call
  • Full-time and Part-time Positions

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. **

CUSTODIANS WANTED FOR NEW AIRPORT TERMINAL  

WHAT: Diverse Facility Solutions is hiring custodians for the new international arrivals terminal at Sea-Tac Airport.

Full-time positions available: 

  • Lead custodians: $18.80/hr
  • Custodians: $17.09/hr
  • Supervisors: $21.09/hr

Shifts: 

  • 1st shift: 6am-2:30pm
  • 2nd shift: 2pm-10:30pm

TO APPLY: Go to the Diversity Facility Solutions Website.

QUESTIONS? Call 253.204.2730.

MORE CUSTODIAL JOBS AT NEW TERMINAL 

WHAT: Whayne & Sons Enterprises is looking to immediately hire custodians for the third shift at Sea-Tac airport’s new International Arrivals Terminal. Custodians are responsible for the satisfactory performance of routine general cleaning throughout the airport.

Position details:

  • Third shift position (9:30pm-6am)
  • Wages start at $17.09/hr.
  • Medical and dental insurance
  • Retirement plan
  • Bonus program available
  • Union represented position

Candidates must be: 

  • At least 18 years old
  • Able to speak, read and write English
  • Self-motivated and able to work independently
  • Able to pass a TSA background check and drug testing
  • Able to push and pull restroom carts and trash barrels

TO APPLY: Call or text VJ at 206.556.9883.

~ONGOING OPPORTUNITIES & RESOURCES~

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.

UPDATE TO CHILD TAX CREDIT  

WHAT: Recent changes to the Child Tax Credit (CTC) could mean big things for your family!

  • Larger payments: The CTC now pays up to $3,600 each year for kids age 5 and under, and up to $3,000 each for kids ages 6 to 17.
  • Full credits for households with low incomes or no income: There is no minimum income to qualify for the full credit.
  • Monthly cash payments beginning in July: Half of the credit will be paid monthly (up to $250-$300 per kid) from July through December 2021, and the remainder will come when taxes are filed in 2022.
  • Kids in 9 in 10 Washington households are eligible: Households with kids age 17 or under and who have lived there six months of the past year qualify. Qualifying kids must have a Social Security Number (SSN).

How do I make sure I get it?  

  • If you already filed taxes for 2019 or 2020, you will receive payments automatically via mail or direct deposit.
  • If you’re not required to file taxes, fill out the IRS non-filer form ASAP.
  • If you are required to file taxes but didn’t, file them ASAP. Need help filing taxes? Go to GetYourRefund.org.

FOR MORE INFORMATION: Go to ChildTaxCredit.gov.

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 HOMELESS 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 Taylor Vick on Unsplash.

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