Resource and Support Programs
The Washington Traumatic Brain Injury Strategic Partnership Advisory Council is governed by RCW Chapter 74.31, and addresses issues related to Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI). The intent of the statute is to bring together expertise from the public and private sector to address the needs and gaps in services for this community.
The RCW requires that services are in place for Information and Referral (Resources) and Support Groups that have a statewide presence.
RCW - Chapter 74.31
Brain Injury Alliance of Washington (BIAWA)
The BIAWA provides FREE services to individuals with TBI, including their family members and caregivers through information, referral, and resource management. BIAWA participates in a public awareness campaign, helping to explain services and prevention methods.
BIAWA can be contacted at – 877-982-4292
Website - www.biawa.org
Brain Energy Support Team (BEST)
BEST provides support groups, activities/events and education for individuals with TBI, which includes their family members, caregivers, and the general public within their communities. BEST Facilitators and Support Group Coaches are within local communities around the state as a resource and mediator to resources within those local communities.
BEST can be contacted at – 877-719-2378
Website - www.brainenergysupportteam.org
Washington State Department of Veteran Affairs (WDVA)
The WDVA provides direct and indirect support to veterans and anyone living with, working with or supporting veterans who have incurred a brain injury through 1:1 case management, education, awareness building, connecting with proper referrals and innovative programs such as the Max Impact (TBI) smartphone app all free of charge.
Website - www.dva.wa.gov/veterans-their-families/counseling-and-wellness/traumatic-brain-injury-tbi
Washington State Lifespan Respite (LRW)
Respite is planned or emergency care provided to a child or adult with special needs in order to provide temporary relief to family caregivers caring for that child or adult. Respite is provided informally or in a more structured way through programs based on a variety of eligibility criteria. Some respite programs may utilize an available bed in a healthcare facility for families who require extended respite options for a family member or friend requiring skilled care.
Website – www.lifespanrespitewa.org
Housing Resources
Housing and Homelessness Assistance – WA State Department of Commerce
The Washington State Department of Commerce has state and federal fund sources that support housing and homeless programs statewide. If you are homeless or about to become homeless you can connect a local sources through the Coordinated Entry Program (linked in the red banner at the top of the webpage) or call the BIAWA Resource Center 1-877-982-4292 for more information.
Learn more about the various housing programs supported by Commerce. Many of the providers are connected to other resources that can also provide wrap around services in other areas besides housing issues.
https://www.commerce.wa.gov/serving-communities/homelessness/
DSHS Housing Assistance
DSHS Housing assistance information also includes information about Adult Family Homes, Assisted Living Facilities and In-Home Care Assistance, plus much more.