~NEW THIS WEEK~
FREE FAMILY RESOURCE FAIR
WHEN: Saturday, August 13, 11am-1pm
WHERE: Amara, 5907 MLK Jr Way S, Seattle 98118
WHAT: The Family Support Services (FSS) team from Open Arms Perinatal Services is hosting a free Summer Resource Fair. The team will be distributing tangible resources as well as hosting community partners for families to learn more about resources available to them in the community! Join them for:
- School Supplies
- Books
- Diapers & Wipes
- PPE
- Produce
- Health Insurance Enrollment & Benefits Referrals
- Open Arms Programs Information
- Community Partner Resources
This event is open to all, with RSVPs requested. Spanish and Somali interpretation provided. Masks and social distancing required.
TO REGISTER: Go to Summer Resource Fair RSVP.
MORE INFO: Download the Summer Resource Fair flyer in English, Spanish, or Somali.
VETERANS’ JOB CLUB
WHEN: Wednesday, July 27, 2022, 10-11:30am
WHERE: Online.
WHAT: Attention all veterans! Have questions about training or job search? VA programs? Life stability questions? This is an Informational opportunity on job search and training programs for veterans.
TO REGISTER: Go to WorkSourceWA.com and create an account.
MORE INFO: Contact Michael Crawford at 206.721.6042 or michael.crawford@esd.wa.gov.
~UPCOMING/CURRENT COMMUNITY OPPORTUNITIES & RESOURCES~
FREE MEDICAL CARE FOR PEOPLE EXPERIENCING HOMELESSNESS
WHEN: Wednesday, July 20, 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:
- Friday, July 22, 2022, 10am-2pm, St. Vincent de Paul Food Bank, 5972 4th Ave S, Seattle
- Wednesday, July 27, 2022, 11am-3pm, Uplift NW, 2515 Western Ave, Seattle
Upcoming South King County dates:
- Wednesday, July 20, 2022, 10am-2pm, Ray of Hope, 2806 Auburn Way N, Auburn
- Monday, July 25, 2022, 2:30pm-6:30pm, Kent Lutheran Church, 336 2nd Ave S, Kent
- Tuesday, July 26, 2022, 10am-2pm, Calvary Lutheran Church, 2415 S. 320th St, Federal Way
- Wednesday, July 27, 2022, 9:30am-3pm, Navos, 1210 SW 136th St., Burien
- Wednesday, July 27, 2022, 11am-3pm, Transform Burien, 156th St & Des Moines Memorial Dr.
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.
JOB FAIRS
WHAT: A variety of employers are holding hiring events this week, with some making on-the-spot offers with no experience required.
United States Postal Service
- When:
- Wednesday, July 20, 2022, 10am-1pm, Beacon Hill Library, 2821 Beacon Ave South, Seattle, WA 98144
- Thursday, July 21, 2022, 10am-1pm, Columbia Library, 4721 Rainier Avenue South, Seattle, WA 98118
- Positions: Part-Time Flexible Carrier, Tractor Trailer Operator, Postal Support Employee, Mail Handler Assistant, Custodian
- More info: Go to USPS Careers.
Clean Harbors
- When: Thursday, July 21, and Friday, July 22, 2022, 10am – 7pm; Saturday, July 23, 2022, 10-2pm
- Where: 26328 79th Ave. S, Kent, WA 98032
- Positions: CDL Drivers, Mechanics, Laborers
- More info: Contact kirk.sarah@cleanharbors.com.
VIP Hospitality
- When: Thursday, July 21, 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.
- Positions: Access Control Security Agents and Supervisors, $19/hr; Divestiture Agents/Checkpoints, $18/hr; Baggage Handler, $18/hr; Customer Service Agent, $17.54/hr
- To apply: Go to VIP Hospitality Careers.
- More info: Download the VIP Hiring Event July 21 Flyer.
Prospect
- When: Friday, July 22, 2022, 10am-1pm
- Where: Airport University Classroom at Sea-Tac Airport (See directions above)
- Position: Passenger Service Assistants and Janitorial Agents, $17.54/hr
- More info: Download the Prospect Hiring Event July 22 Flyer.
FREE AND LOW-COST VETERINARY CARE
WHEN: Friday, July 22, 2022, 11am-2pm
WHERE: Recovery Cafe SODO, 4202 6th Ave S, 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.
MORE INFO: Visit the Seattle Veterinary Outreach Clinic Calendar.
FREE SUNDAY DINNERS
WHEN: Every Sunday, noon-2pm
WHERE: Blessed Sacrament Church, 5050 8th Ave NE, Seattle, WA 98115
WHAT: Free take-out meals are available every Sunday at Blessed Sacrament Church. Meals served with bread, dessert, fruit. and bottled water. They can be picked up in Parish Hall. Please wear a mask.
July menu:
- July 24: Pork adobo (veggie option available) with rice, green beans, pasta salad
- July 31: Meatloaf with mashed potatoes, gravy, corn, 3-bean salad
MORE INFO: Download the Blessed Sacrament Sunday Dinner Monthly Flyer.
RENT SMART: BASICS OF LOOKING FOR HOUSING
WHEN: Wednesday, July 27, 2022, 3-4:45pm
WHERE: Zoom
WHAT: Learn the basics of a housing search, including:
- Where to search for housing
- Information regarding tenant screening
- Best tips for finding a rental
- Tax credit housing
- Information about holding deposits when applying for a rental
- Overcoming rental barriers such as a criminal history and a record of evictions
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: Looking for Housing Basics
QUESTIONS? Contact Julia Gibson at jgibson@kcls.org.
YOUTH RESOURCE FAIR
WHEN: Friday, July 29, 10am-3pm
WHERE: Steel Lake Park, 2410 S 312th St, Federal Way, WA 98003
WHAT: Music, food trucks, games, and activities for teens and their families, plus info about services and programs available from Multi-Service Center, like Basic Food/SNAP.
MORE INFO: Call 253.838.6810 ext. 182.
WELCOME TO MEDICARE WORKSHOP: UNDERSTAND YOUR OPTIONS!
WHEN: Thursday, August 4, 2022
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 SUMMER MEALS FOR KIDS
WHEN: June 27 through August 24, 2022
WHERE: Sites across Seattle and King County. Go to the Summer Meals Site Finder and enter your address to find sites near you.
WHAT: Free Summer Meals are available for kids and teens 18 and younger at parks, community centers, and schools in your community. All sites offer grab-and-go meals that you can pick up and eat at home, and some sites may provide multiple meals at once. Your child does not need to be present to pick up a meal. If you are sick and in need of meals, please stay home and send someone else to pick up food.
MORE INFO: Go to Children and Youth Summer Food Service Program on the City of Seattle website, text the word “Food” to 304.304, call 1.866.348.6479, or email SFSP@seattle.gov.
AFFORDABLE SUMMER ACTIVITIES
WHAT: The Reduced Cost Services Guide is packed with info about free and low-cost museums, zoos, and parks across Washington state, plus discounts at farmers markets for people with low incomes.
MORE INFO: Download the Reduced Cost Services Guide from the Washington State Department of Social & Health Services.
HELP PAYING FOR MEDICARE
WHAT: You could save $148 or more under two savings programs for eligible Medicare subscribers. Eligibility is based on income and personal resources, including savings.
Medicare Savings Programs (MSP) may cover:
- Part A and B premiums
- Medicare co-pay costs
- Medicare deductibles
Extra Help for Part D (prescription drugs) may cover:
- Premiums
- Some co-pay costs
- Deductibles
- Donut hole/coverage gap
Want to find out if you’re eligible for Medicare Savings Program and/or Extra Help? Contact Statewide Health Insurance Benefits Advisors (SHIBA) at 206.753.4806, 1-800-562-6900, or shiba@solid-ground.org. SHIBA can also 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.
SHIBA offers free, unbiased Medicare education and assistance through the Washington State Office of the Insurance Commissioner.
MORE INFO: To learn more about SHIBA, go to www.insurance.wa.gov/shiba.
To learn more about MSP and Extra Help, go to Medicare Savings Programs | Medicare, Find your level of Extra Help (Part D) | Medicare
Applying is easy. You can have either standard Medicare or a Medicare Advantage plan. Contact SHIBA to get help on applying.
RENT SMART/¡INQUILINOS INTELIGENTES!
WHEN: All English sessions held twice monthly on Wednesdays, 2-4pm. Spanish sessions held monthly on Thursday, 5:30-6:45pm.
WHERE: Zoom
WHAT: Virtual Renters’ Rights Workshop Series
Rent Smart Webinars in English
- 8/10/22: Rent Smart: General Tenant Information
- 8/24/22: Rent Smart: Moving Out of Your Current Rental
¡Inquilinos Inteligentes! Talleres Virtuales en Español
- 7/28/22:¡Inquilinos Inteligentes!: Desalojos y terminaciones del arrendamiento
- 8/25/22:¡Inquilinos Inteligentes!: Cargos y depósitos
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~
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:
- Tenant Counselor
- JourneyHome Rapid Rehousing Case Manager
- Digital Media Specialist
- Additional positions at Solid Ground…
QUESTIONS? Learn more about Solid Ground and see other open positions on the Solid Ground Careers page.
~ONGOING JOB OPPORTUNITIES~
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.
~ONGOING OPPORTUNITIES & RESOURCES~
HELP GETTING A FREE PHONE
WHEN: Every first and last Thursday of the month, 3:30-5:30pm
WHERE: FamilyWorks Food Bank, 1501 N 45th St, Seattle, WA 98103
WHAT: You may be able to receive a free phone through Access Wireless if you have a Washington State ID and Social Security number and receive benefits like Medicaid and food stamps (SNAP). Phone activation may take up to two hours so please be prepared to wait.
MORE INFO: FamilyWorks Food Bank
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 the Crisis Connections 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.
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:
- Mail: Access & Outreach, Public Health – Seattle & King County, 401 5th Avenue #1000,
Seattle, WA 98104 - Fax: 206.296.0881
- Email: chap@kingcounty.gov
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
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)
- Bellevue College – Institute for Business and Information Technology
- Green River College – Information Technology Programs
- Highline College – Computer Science Programs
- North Seattle College – IT Programs
- Renton Technical College – IT Programs
- Seattle Central College – IT and Web Programs
- South Seattle College/Year Up – Business Operations and Project Management Support Program
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.
- 866.789.1511 (1.206.461.3219 TTY)
- waRecoveryHelpLine.org
- Help for teens: 866.TEENLINK (1.866.833.6546)
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.
- Visit Employment Security’s Unemployment Benefits webpage.
- Download the Eligibility Checker.
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:
- For access to job resources, visit The Seattle Public Library Job Resources webpage.
- For assistance with unemployment claims, contact the Employment Securities Department.
- For assistance finding shelter, food resources, or other help with basic needs, contact our Community Resource Specialist.
**Your Next Job is offered in partnership with King County Library System and Seattle Jobs Initiative.**
988: A NEW NUMBER FOR MENTAL HEALTH EMERGENCIES
WHAT: Starting July 16, 2022, you can call, text, or chat 988 to be connected to the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline. It will be confidential, free, and available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year.
Services will be available in Spanish, along with interpretation services in over 250 languages. For people who are deaf, hard of hearing, and TTY users: Use your preferred relay service or dial 711 then 1.800.273.8255.
You can dial 988 if you are having:
- Thoughts of suicide
- Mental health crises
- Substance use crises
- Any other kind of emotional distress
- Concerns about a loved one who may need crisis support
988 will not replace any crisis call centers in Washington state. It is an addition to the state’s network of crisis center providers. The current NSPL number, 1.800.273.TALK (8255), will remain active along with 988.
MORE INFO: Download the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline flyer.
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