This month, community members, first responders and city officials from across South King County gathered in Renton for a Lunch & Learn focused on the growing network of free, 24/7 crisis care services available to everyone. The presentation highlighted key resources such as the 988 Crisis Line, mobile crisis response teams, and progress toward opening … Continue reading South King County Community Event Recap: Expanding Crisis Care Across the Region
Last year, the King County Auditor’s Office released a report showing the need for stronger financial oversight at DCHS and identified 19 contracts for further review. Since then, DCHS has not only implemented stronger oversight and internal controls over public dollars, but the department—in partnership with King County’s Finance and Business Operations Division (FBOD)—has now confirmed that no public funds were … Continue reading Final Review of Audited Contracts Shows No Loss of Funds to Fraud
New data shows King County Department of Community & Human Services helped more people access crisis care last year than ever before, thanks largely to new services and investments made possible by the voter-approved Crisis Care Centers Levy. This levy, approved by voters in 2023, invests in mental health and substance use care across King County. Now, we’ve released two reports that show both the momentum we’re building and the gaps … Continue reading Data Dive: Crisis Services in King County
For older adults, access to programs and services that help them maintain their independence is crucial. But more often than not, resources aren’t readily available, and barriers like financial limitations, a lack of transportation, or health conditions keep older adults from thriving. A recent article published in Prevention Science highlights a local model for senior health and wellness that has been quietly changing lives across King County. And while the journal feature is an exciting milestone, … Continue reading How the Veterans, Seniors, and Human Services Levy Is Improving Health for Thousands of Seniors
King County residents are invited to two virtual Community Update Meetings this fall to learn about the renewal of the MIDD Behavioral Health Sales Tax and the new Implementation Plan that was recently sent to the King County Council for consideration. If passed by Council, the Implementation Plan will guide several key local investments in behavioral health care through 2034. These Community Update Meetings are hosted by the King County Department of Community and Human Services’ (DCHS) Behavioral Health and Recovery Division … Continue reading Announcing September and October Community Update Meetings on the MIDD Behavioral Health Sales Tax Renewal
For years, Abdi Farah worried about losing the home where his family lived. The two-bedroom apartment they rented was in poor condition. Repairs were often delayed, and the family was charged unexpected maintenance fees on top of rent. Afraid of eviction, Abdi paid the bills even when the charges didn’t seem right. That changed after … Continue reading Staying Rooted: How community-driven development is shaping King County