People trying to access services through Washington State Department of Social Services have been confronted with closed offices and long waits on hold when calling the department. For people with limited resources these barriers result in individuals being unable to access needed safety net programs. Difficulty receiving DSHS services has prompted Bill 2075 to be introduced to the current legislative session by Rep. Strom Peterson and with the arduous efforts by the Seattle/King County Coalition for Homelessness. This bill will require DSHS Community Service Offices to maintain staff on the premises including staff to serve clients who walk in. The bill also ensures the DSHS call center meets minimum standards regarding client access and outcomes, and that wait times do not exceed 30 minutes.
The Seattle/King County Coalition for Homelessness has created an easy opportunity for constituents to write to their state legislators in support of this bill. After submitting your name and address, you will be directed to your legislators with a prepared script or you can write a brief statement in your own words emphasizing the need for easy access to services for people in need.
Tell your legislators to join Rep. Peterson in his desire to establish service requirements for the department of social and health services. Thank you for advocating for those who may not be able to.