Vaccine Appointments Available for South King County

Your Update on What's Happening at the King County Council  

Dear Friends and Neighbors,

I encourage you to read this article recapping my recent King County Conference on Addiction Disorders that summarizes some of the event’s key content, including stories from those in recovery. 

Addiction is an issue that touches so many lives here in King County. Studies show that during the pandemic, more people are turning to substance use to deal with stress and isolation. That’s why it’s critical that we work together now, as a community to fight the stigma of addiction and the feelings of shame, failure, and hopelessness that prevent people from seeking help. Recovery is always possible, and there’s support and treatment available for anyone who is ready to take that step.

This week, I introduced two pieces of legislation: one that would direct Best Starts for Kids levy funding to bolster substance abuse prevention in youth, and another that would raise awareness of King County’s Secure Medicine Return program that helps reduce the risk of prescription medicine falling into the wrong hands.

Remember—anyone who is struggling with mental health or substance use disorders can get connected to treatment and resources by calling SAMHSA's National Helpline: 1-800-662-HELP (4357)—a free, confidential, 24/7, 365-day-a-year treatment referral and information service.

All my best,

Reagan Dunn

Reagan Dunn Vice Chair Metropolitan King County Council

Alert: Large Number of Vaccine Appointments Available for South King County Residents

Currently, through April 26^th, there are many vaccine appointments available for south King County residents at both the Auburn and Kent vaccination clinics. Registration is required. Please visit the King County COVID-19 Vaccination Screener to make an appointment.

New Program Offers In-Home COVID-19 Vaccinations

A new, in-home vaccination service is now available for King County residents who are unable to travel to receive get vaccinated. Mobile teams will deliver vaccinations to eligible residents through partnerships with local fire departments, pharmacies, and medical providers.

Eligible adults include people age 16 and older who have a medical condition, including an injury or developmental disability, that makes it difficult to leave the home and would require considerable and taxing effort to get vaccinated outside the home. 

You can read more about this service at the Public Health Insider blog. To schedule an appointment, call the King County COVID-19 Call Center at 206-477-3977. 

New VSHSL Funding Opportunity for Rural Food Banks

A new funding opportunity is available for food banks in rural areas to support the use of technology to function as an access point to health and human services that benefit vulnerable populations in King County. Funded food banks will provide outreach and needs assessments to food bank participants in order to best connect them to services including those that may provide assistance with food, social engagement or connectivity, health promotion programming, housing, reentry supports, utilities, child care, employment, job training, medical, dental, and health care services.

For more information or to apply, please visit the Department of Community & Human Services blog.