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Director's Note—August 2024
August marks the final full month of summer. Our Seattle Youth Employment Program (SYEP) interns are wrapping up six-week internships at locations throughout City departments and in the community. Soon they will be preparing to return to school, and I want to extend my thanks to all 251 interns for their hard work and dedication. I can‘t begin to express how much we have appreciated working alongside you!
If you or someone you know is interested in joining next year’s internship program, either as an intern or a host agency, applications will open in February 2025. Additionally, applications are currently open for our 2024–2025 Learn and Earn program.
August is National Immunization Awareness Month and this is National Health Center Week. This year, HSD is investing over $24 million in public health, including comprehensive healthcare, mental health services, violence prevention, and environmental health. Through our specific contract with Public Health―Seattle and King County, our goal is to improve community health, eliminate disparities, and promote preventive care like ensuring that immunizations are available to all.
We are also grateful for dozens of HSD community partners that promote health, provide health services, and work to keep our communities healthy and safe.
In community,
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 Community Corner: African American Reach & Teach Health Ministry (AARTH)
This month's Community Corner spotlight focuses on the African American Reach & Teach Health Ministry (AARTH), which promotes positive health outcomes for people of African descent and other marginalized communities. Founded in 2002, AARTH has grown from a local initiative to a multi-state leader in health equity. Visit humaninterests.seattle.gov to learn more about AARTH’s transformative work.
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 Employee Spotlight: Ali Records
Ali Records recently joined HSD in the Homelessness division, focusing her attention on HSD’s public health investments, including contracts supporting comprehensive services for people experiencing homelessness, drug treatment, and mental health. Visit humaninterests.seattle.gov to learn more about Ali and her impact on our community.
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 Cities United Convening
HSD’s Safe and Thriving Communities Division is preparing for the Cities United Convening in Seattle from October 2–4. Local change-makers will join with those from around the country to explore innovative violence prevention strategies and share best practices for addressing the root causes of violence. Earlybird registration is now open. Learn more at citiesunited.org.
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 Civic Coffee: Social Connectivity
Join Age Friendly Seattle at their Civic Coffee on Monday, August 12 (1:30–2:30 p.m.) at the Lake City Senior Center (12509 27th Ave NE, Seattle, WA 98125). The event focuses on Social Connectivity. Refreshments will be provided. Unable to attend in person? You have an option to join online.
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Clean Energy Credits for Washington Families
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Income-qualified residential customers can apply to receive a one-time $200 Clean Energy Credit through the Washington State Climate Commitment Act. Funds are limited—apply now at WACleanEnergyCredits.com. (You may also qualify for the Utility Discount Program that our department administers on behalf of Seattle City Light and Seattle Public Utilities. Visit Seattle.gov/UDP for information.) |
Visit Your Nearest Summer Meals Site
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Queen loves spending her summer days at Powell Barnett Park in Seattle’s Central District, where she enjoys free meals through HSD’s Summer Food Service Program and plays her favorite games. Children ages 1–18 can eat free nutritious meals and join in fun activities at 60 parks and community centers throughout Seattle. Find your nearest free meal site on the Summer Food Service Program webpage. |
Join the Mayor’s Council on African American Elders
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Are you passionate about the wellbeing of older Black adults in our community? Consider joining the Mayor’s Council on African American Elders (MCAAE). Established in 1994, the MCAAE has been a pivotal force in shaping services and programs for Seattle’s older African American residents. Currently, the council is seeking new members interested in making a difference. Read more about how you can apply and contribute your voice to this influential group at the link above. |
WA Cares: It Affects Us All
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The WA Cares Fund is designed to benefit all residents by providing a safety net for long-term care when needed, irrespective of age or current health. This program offers peace of mind, knowing that funding for care will be available, whether for sudden health changes or support for loved ones. Additionally, it allows you to preserve savings for future milestones, ensuring financial stability. Curious about how the WA Cares Fund can support your long-term care needs? Learn more here. |
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