Washington residents who need long-term care may now be able to access financial support through the WA Cares Fund. Benefits became available July 1, 2026, to help eligible workers pay for services and supports.

WA Cares provides up to $36,500 in lifetime benefits to help cover services such as personal care, home modifications, assistive technology, transportation and respite care. Benefits can also be used to pay qualified family caregivers.

To qualify, applicants must meet work contribution requirements and need assistance with at least three daily activities, such as bathing, eating or moving around. Workers may qualify if they contributed to WA Cares for at least three of the past six years. Other eligibility pathways are also available.

People do not need to receive services through the Developmental Disabilities Administration (DDA) or Home and Community Services (HCS) to apply. WA Cares assesses eligibility separately.

This new video series highlights the work of parents helping other parents find community support for their family members. The Family Mentor Project supports families and guardians of people who want to move from a residential habilitation center operated by the Developmental Disabilities Administration or a skilled nursing facility.

Funded through DDA's Roads to Community Living program, the Family Mentor Project helps families and guardians explore service options, interview providers and visit homes. The project also provides emotional support throughout the process.

Watch this two-part video series to learn more about the support the project offers and why family mentors are committed to helping people get the support they need.

Exploring recommendations to improve the transition from school to adult life for students with disabilities and their families.

The 2026 Transition Collaborative Summative Report is now available. The report shares findings and recommendations aimed at improving services and supports for students with disabilities as they transition from school to adult life.

For students and families, the report offers insight into challenges, community priorities and recommendations to help improve the transition experience. New resources include a Community Input Summary and a video highlighting key recommendations. A Plain Language Companion Guide is also available in multiple languages.

November is National Family Caregivers Month, a time to recognize the important role family caregivers play in supporting their loved ones. For families of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD), caregiving can include helping with daily activities, coordinating services, advocating for support and planning for the future.

Caring for a family member can be rewarding, but it can also come with challenges. Finding services, balancing responsibilities and making time for yourself are all important parts of the caregiving journey. Whether you are a parent, sibling or other family member providing support, resources are available to help.

Informing Families offers information and resources to help caregivers find support, connect with others and navigate services:

• Pathways to Respite: Explore respite resources and options for caregivers who support children and adults with developmental disabilities and others who need care.
• Dads Make a Difference: Male Caregivers as Engaged Parents: Find resources to help fathers and male caregivers connect with other parents, understand services and support their own well-being.
• Parent and Family Led Networks in Washington: Learn about statewide programs that connect families with peer support, information, resources and advocacy opportunities.
• Community Resource Guide: Connecting Resources in Washington State: Find programs and organizations that offer support with health care, education, community living, disability services and advocacy throughout Washington.

This November, we recognize the dedication, knowledge and care that family caregivers bring to their loved ones' lives. Supporting caregivers is an important part of supporting people with IDD and their families.

You don't have to navigate services and support alone. Informing Families coordinators can help you find resources, understand available services and connect with support in your community.