Some of us are directly experiencing economic hardship and uncertainty from the COVID-19 pandemic, or our friends and
family. There is help available from local, state and federal sources.
These resources are for you to use and help keep our community strong.
King County resource summaries:
HOW
TO APPLY FOR UNEMPLOYMENT BENEFITS IN WASHINGTON STATE (how to apply online 24/7 at secure.esd.wa.gov/home)
HOW TO
APPLY FOR WORKERS’ COMPENSATION IN WASHINGTON STATE (apply online 24/7 at FileFast)
COVID-19
FINANCIAL HELP IN WASHINGTON STATE (Unemployment and workers comp, mortgage and rent help, student loans,
Utilities, insurance, food assistance, businesses and more).
Financial resources
Financial Resources for Washington Residents Impacted by
COVID-19 Washington State Department of Financial Institutions list of resources for Washingtonians.
Unemployment Benefits
Many people who have lost their jobs or had their hours cut are eligible for unemployment benefits. See esd.wa.gov. A flier on the website provides an outline
of possible benefits.
Please note that the website has been having difficulty keeping up with demand, so try at off hours such as early
morning or late at night. The governor waived the one-week waiting period and expanded eligibility, so apply
immediately.
Paid Family and Medical Leave
Washington’s Employment Security Department has a paid family and medical leave program. Washington workers who
need to take time off from work due to a serious health condition or to care for a family member with a serious
health condition, such as COVID-19 It may apply for paid leave benefits. Check your eligibility at paidleave.wa.gov.
Health Insurance
Apply for health insurance by April 8 or renew a plan though the
Washington Health Plan Finder.
Food Assistance
Food Bank
The Vashon Maury Community Food Bank continues to provide nutritious food to anyone in need and offers both delivery and
pick-up programs. The food bank encourages island residents who are part of the population especially vulnerable
to COVID-10 to sign up for home delivery, which takes place each Thursday and Friday. For others, grocery pick up occurs
from 10:00 a.m. to 2 p.m. and 4 to 7 p.m. Wednesdays. For more information about the food bank or
sign up for delivery, call 206-463-6332.
School Nutrition Program
The Vashon Island School District offers meals for any district students who need them. Those who are interested
should complete the community survey so the district can plan for quantities. Lunch program web page.
There are two ways for families to access free breakfast and lunch for students:
- 1. VISD bus drivers will deliver meals to designated pick up locations around Vashon. See the route information and schedule to find the time and location of your
nearest pick up.
- 2. Families may also pick up a meal from Vashon High School between 8 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. on scheduled school days. Please note at this time Washington State asks that students be present for meal pickup. This requirement
may change in the future.
- Adults may purchase meals at the High School or the bus drop-off points for $5.
Vashon Senior Center
The Vashon Senior Center delivers lunches on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays. Isolated seniors are welcome to sign up
by calling 206-463-5173. Info here.