To read archived press releases, please choose the appropriate year below:
Sep 27 2025
DSHS Office of Communications, DSHS Office of Communications, 564-201-0033
Our hearts are heavy today as we grieve the violent and tragic loss of one of our employees at Eastern State Hospital. We send our heartfelt support to the victim’s loved ones and to our dedicated employees and patients who are affected by this loss.
The lockdown at Eastern State Hospital campus is lifted. All patients and ...read the full news release
Jun 17 2025
DSHS Office of Communications, Norah West, 360-489-5587
Chehalis, WA – On June 30, 2025, the Department of Social and Health Services’ Chehalis Community Services Office is relocating from NE Hampe Way to 1247 Harrison Ave., Centralia, WA 98531. The new office will be located just south of Blakeslee Junction off Interstate 5 at exit 82, less than ...read the full news release
Jun 09 2025
DSHS Office of Communications, Norah West, 360-489-5587
Uninterrupted access to services still available in person, online and via phone
WHITE SALMON, Washington – People living in Klickitat County will be able to access services like food, cash and medical benefits and other supports online, over the phone and at mobile office events once the DSHS brick-and-mortar office in White Salmon closes permanently on June 30, 2025, when the building’s lease is set to expire.
No DSHS staff are stationed currently at the White Salmon ...read the full news release
May 21 2025
DSHS Office of Communications, Norah West, 360-489-5587
Nearly 600,000 children got $120 in nutrition benefits last summer
OLYMPIA—This summer, up to 620,000 Washington children will receive SUN Bucks – funds to help buy food when school is not in session – through the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Summer Electronic Benefit Transfer program. Read the full news release.
May 20 2025
DSHS Office of Communications, Jessica Nelson, 360-688-3718
OLYMPIA — Today Gov. Bob Ferguson signed a new law expanding Washingtonians’ options for accessing long-term care support through the WA Cares Fund. The law creates opportunities for Washingtonians to purchase affordable supplemental long-term care coverage from private insurers in the future, allows workers who have a private insurance exemption to join the program and simplifies the ten-year contribution requirement to qualify for benefits.
“These changes will allow more ...read the full news release
