Director's Note—December 2023

Ah, December—it’s been an amazing year. Although COVID-19 still looms, we’ve resumed life in community with one another. That is so important! Most of us, and especially those of us who work in human services, recognize the vital importance of social engagement. I want to thank all the community providers who connected with clients throughout the pandemic and continue today; in some cases, stronger than ever. Your work matters. Broadly, you are saving lives.

As the year comes to a close, we look back at the multitude of ways in which Seattle Human Services and the organizations we fund collaborate with to meet basic needs and connect people with resources and solutions so we can all live, learn, work, and take part in strong, healthy communities. Because we value diversity, respect, and dignity for all people—and we don’t hold back in saying so—we are building a better community.

 I also want to thank my hardworking HSD staff in the following divisions and units: Aging and Disability Services, Safe and Thriving Communities, Youth and Family Empowerment, and Operations/Administration, as well as my Senior Leadership Team, for a wonderful year. I appreciate what you do to support clients, both internally and throughout the community. We are all better off for the connections you make and the services you provide.

Wishing one and all comfort, warmth, and joy throughout the holiday seasons and beyond.

Best,

Tanya Kim

Severe Weather Tips

Snow, ice, high winds, and other severe weather events can pop up unexpectedly and make living treacherous. Be prepared! One of the best steps you can take to prepare for extreme weather any time of year is to sign up for Alert Seattle. In advance, please review the City of Seattle’s Safety Tips and Resources for Winter Weather. If you are a pet owner, also read Severe Weather Tips from the Seattle Animal Shelter. Take care of yourselves and share with friends and family in the Seattle area. Photo credit: Tom Ahearn (Flickr CC)

Members of the Seattle-King County Advisory Council on Aging & Disability Services and Aging Network advocates from across Washington state are preparing now to let elected officials in Olympia know what they think about funding for long-term services and supports and for nutrition services. Photo credit: Ken Lund. [Learn More]

From January through April, United Way will offer free, walk-in tax preparation assistance at 20 locations across King County, as well as virtually through our online tax site. At our tax sites, volunteers file taxes for community members of all ages and backgrounds, helping them to access the refunds and tax credits that they are entitled to, including the new Washington State Working Families Tax Credit launched earlier this year. [Learn More]