Ages 14-21: Resources

Monthly benefits to help low-income individuals and families buy food. 1-877-501-2233

In an effort to focus on the needs of families, the Developmental Disabilities Council and the Washington State Developmental Disabilities Administration applied for and received a five-year Community of Practice grant to explore different ways of supporting families across the lifespan of the individual.

Considerations in planning for the future may include wills and special needs trusts.  One option for you to explore is the DD Endowment Trust Fund (ETF), administered by The Arc of Washington State. This public/private partnership creates a stable resource to enhance the quality of life for people with developmental disabilities. For more information, call toll-free 1-888-754-8798 ext. 1.

Apply for DDA in-home services/supports (e.g., Personal Care, Respite, Supported Living, Companion Home, Adult Family Home)

A special program of the School of Dentistry that treats persons with severe disabilities. Find a directory of dentists trained to treat children with special needs, as well as helpful dental care fact sheets related to specific conditions.

Legal services for disability rights violations, general information about legal rights, community education and training.  1-800-562-2702 Language interpreters are available via the AT&T Language Line. Please use 711 for Washington Relay Service (TTY).

If you suspect that a child or vulnerable adult is being abused or neglected, call this number: 1-866-363-4276 The operator will connect you with the right DSHS office to make your report. [Note: If you are calling about an immediate life-threatening emergency, call 911.]

Family to Family helps families of children and youth with special health care needs (CYSHCN) and the professionals who serve them identify sources that may be of use when looking for healthcare funding. Visit wapave.org  or call 800-572-7368 ext. 108.

Apply for HUD federal housing assistance. Contact your local Housing Authority to find out how long the waiting list is. (visit locator)

The Job Foundation Pilot Program provides more employment supports at an earlier age to help high school transition students leave school with a job at 21. This is made possible through a partnership between school districts, the Division of Vocational Rehabilitation (DVR), the Developmental Disabilities Administration (DDA), Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction (OSPI), County Developmental Disabilities, employment providers, and others.

Civil legal assistance and representation to low-income people in situations affecting basic human needs, such as family safety and security, housing preservation, protection of income, access to health care, education and other basic needs.  1-888-201-1012 (Outside King County) | 2-1-1 (Inside King County)

If you are unable to come to an agreement with your child’s teacher or school about your child’s educational goals, the Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction’s website has a Special Education Dispute Resolution page for resolving disagreements.

The OEO facilitates the resolution of individual complaints regarding issues or concerns that impact any student in Washington’s public school system.

P2P provides support and information to families of children with special needs and/or disabilities, including information and advocacy related to IEPs and education. Local offices are located in every area of the state and can be found in your phone book or by visiting its website.

PAVE provides advocacy, support and workshops on issues related to education, IEPs and inclusion.

Conflict engagement, mediation and skill development training.Call 800-692-2540 or visit their website.

Assists with the special technology needs of special education students.

Provides information about legal issues and where to find legal help for low-income individuals.

WithinReach helps families across Washington State navigate complex health and social service systems and connect with the resources – food assistance, health insurance, childhood screenings and more – they need to be healthy and safe. Call the Help Me Grow Washington Hotline at 1-800-322-2588 or visit www.parenthelp123.org to get connected.