Due to the growing concerns of the COVID-19 pandemic, DSHS has decided for the safety of staff and the general public to cancel all events for May 2020.
We are aware that people are having trouble accessing our Community Services staff via phone as we manage the rapid and steep increase in applications for cash and food assistance. Since our offices are closed for most services, we are shifting resources in the agency to meet the telephonic demand.
We urge everyone with internet access to submit applications and recertification for benefits online via the Washington Connection portal (WACON). We are also now accepting telephonic signatures for applications and reviews. For those needing to call, the best time to call 877-501-2233 is as close to 8 a.m. as possible. Between 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. are the highest call volume times. We appreciate your patience as we navigate the increased demand for our services during this time.
Additional information on food and housing resources can be found on the state’s COVID-19 resource site: https://doh.wa.gov/emergencies/covid-19