Wednesday, Sept. 2, 2026
This page will provide updates on the Spokane Complex fires that started Saturday, Aug. 1, 2026, as well as other wildfires throughout Washington state, and the impacts to Department of Social and Health Services facilities, customers and employees.
Wildfires have destroyed homes and forced tens of thousands to evacuate. While no DSHS facilities or offices are within evacuation areas, many DSHS employees and people we serve have been directly impacted, including the loss of their personal possessions and property.
We are grateful to everyone who has stepped up to support one another during this challenging time. We will continue adding information as it becomes available. Please take care of yourselves and your loved ones, and follow local guidance to stay safe.
You can follow Spokane Regional Emergency Communications for current information on the Spokane Complex fires, and the Washington State Department of Natural Resources Wildfire portal and Watch Duty for the status of other local wildfires.
Thank you.
UPDATE 9/2/2026: Governor expands emergency cash assistance, extends deadline for eligible people affected by wildfires
What is the Disaster Cash Assistance Program?
DCAP is an emergency cash assistance program available to people who meet the location, income and resource limits of the program and who do not already receive Temporary Assistance for Needy Families; Aged, Blind or Disabled cash assistance; or other cash benefits. The monthly benefit amount depends on household size, income and need. New counties are Benton, Columbia, Grant, Kittitas and Whitman. New deadline is Oct. 30, 2026, or when the funds are depleted, whichever comes first.
How does DCAP work?
DSHS can access funding through an emergency proclamation from the governor to activate this temporary program that can help certain residents through times of disaster recovery. The governor’s emergency proclamation enables DSHS to offer a designated amount in Disaster Cash Assistance Program benefits to people who are not eligible for other cash assistance programs.
The assistance application window ends when the emergency proclamation expires or the funding is exhausted, whichever comes first.
DCAP requires an application, which people can complete in person at a mobile office or local Community Services Office or over the phone at 877-501-2233.
People can start the application online at WashingtonConnection.org and then finish the required interview in person or over the phone.
Community resources
- Gov. Bob Ferguson's office has compiled a list of helpful resources for community members to monitor wildfires and to seek recovery assistance.
- Washington Military Department: Online Residential Damage Survey
- The Washington Health Care Authority has information and resources, including for Apple Health clients.
- DSHS' Office of Deaf and Hard of Hearing can help people impacted by wildfires navigate emergency support systems.
- Sign Language Interpreting Contracts and Resources can support the state agencies if they are needing access to interpreter services
- Hard of Hearing Consultation and Resources has assistive listening devices in Spokane if agencies and providers need equipment to help communication at different buildings or check points or to replace equipment lost during a disaster..
- Additional resources from the Washington State Independent Living Council and Coalition on Inclusive Emergency Planning.
- Disability and Disaster Hotline: 800-626-4959 (call and text)
Food benefits replacement - Did you lose food bought with food benefits because of recent wildfires or power outages?
If people lost food bought with food benefits due to recent wildfires, DSHS might be able to replace some or all of its value. We will verify the disaster through a third party, such as the fire or police officials, utility company, or local media. If verified, we can replace benefits for the food destroyed up to the amount of your monthly allotment.
Unless a waiver extending the time limit is in place, people must file a claim within 10 days of food loss. No waivers are currently in place. To file a claim and request replacement benefits, please call 877-501-2233, visit a DSHS mobile office event or visit your local Community Services Office.