KCHA News -- June 2010

A resource for King County Housing Authority residents

 

 

 

KCHA Board of Commissioners seeks new Resident Commissioner

King County Executive Dow Constantine is seeking a volunteer to serve as the Resident Commissioner on the King County Housing Authority Board of Commissioners. To serve as Resident Commissioner, a person must be directly assisted by the housing authority, meaning the person must be a KCHA Public Housing resident or be receiving tenant-based assistance from KCHA through the Housing Choice Voucher (Section 8) program.

Individuals who are interested in serving as Resident Commissioner must have a demonstrated interest in housing issues in King County, be willing to put in the time and commitment necessary to serve on the board, and be able to serve as an effective liaison between the housing authority and the broader community.

The individual appointed will fill a five-year term that expires on May 22, 2015 and will be eligible for reappointment to an additional five-year term.

Commissioners serve without compensation and currently meet the third Wednesday of each month at 8:30 a.m. at the HousingAuthority’s administrative office in Tukwila. Meetings usually last two hours, and occasionally a special board meeting may be required.

Individuals interested in serving as the Resident Commissioner on the housing authority board must complete a King County Boards and Commissions Application form and a King County Code of Ethics Financial Disclosure Statement. Forms may be obtained from Rick Ybarra, Liaison for Boards and Commissions, King County Executive Office, 401 Fifth Avenue, Suite 800, Seattle, WA 98104 or by
calling Mr. Ybarra at 206-263-9651.

All appointments to King County boards and commissions are made by the King County Executive and subject to confirmation by the King County Council.

The closing date for accepting application materials is June 21. Candidates who do not submit both the application and the King County Code of Ethics Financial Disclosure Statement by the closing date will not be considered. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact Rick Ybarra directly at 206-263-9651 or via e-mail at Rick.Ybarra@ kingcounty.gov.

 

Public Hearing Notice
You are invited to a public hearing about proposed changes to KCHA’s policies on tenant rent, income, and utility allowances.
The hearing is at 6 p.m. July 1 in Room 105 at 635 Andover Park W., Tukwila.
For more information, please go online to www.kcha.org.

 

“The first step toward our future

Southeast King County seniors look forward to graduation

By Heather Miller
King County Housing Authority

Abdul Isse wants to pursue a college degree either to become an engineer or a math teacher.

Debbie Manion plans to study criminal justice at Everest College and may follow in her father’s footsteps to ultimately become a correctional officer.

Both high school seniors who grew up spending their afternoons involved in Kent Youth & Family Services programs at Birch Creek, Isse and Manion say they are nervous, excited, and proud to be graduating this month.

“It’s like the first step toward our future,” Manion said.

Isse is the first person in his family to earn a high school diploma, and he said his parents always held him to the expectation that he would ultimately graduate. “I’m just excited to be finally finishing high school,” said Isse, who may attend community college classes at either Highline or Green River before transferring to a four-year school. “I really like math and working with things.”

Isse and Manion both live in Southeast King County and say that spending time at the Birch Creek Youth Center helped to keep them focused and grounded as they worked to finish high school.

“I grew up here so it’s like home,” Manion said of the center. “All of my friends come here so it’s always like a friend reunion.”

Their upcoming graduation ceremonies raise a mix of emotions, the two seniors said.

Both expect to be cheered on by family members as they receive their diplomas and turn their tassels from the right side of their mortarboards to the left.

“It’s a huge deal for my family,” Manion said. “I’m nervous but excited at the same time. I’m nervous about being up on stage in front of everybody, but I’m excited about the whole thing.”

To students just embarking on their high school years, Isse and Manion said they have a few words of advice about how to succeed.

“Talk to your counselor early on,” Isse said. “Learn about what your GPA (grade point average) means, and know what the graduation requirements are.”

Manion advises younger students to stay determined throughout high school, even when they encounter challenges.

“Also, don’t focus on your friends so much,” she said. “At the end of the day, what’s important is school, work, and your future education.”

 

 

 

24 KCHA communities to receive stove top fire prevention devices

By Tim Baker
King County Housing Authority

The kitchen stove top is the No. 1 cause of household fires in NorthAmerica, and KCHA’s properties aren’t immune from that statistic. Fires place our residents, staff, and firefighters at risk for injury with burns and smoke inhalation and cause damage to apartments.

That’s why KCHA applied for and received a grant from the Department of Homeland Security to install a device that will help prevent stove top fires from starting in the first place. The device is called “Safe-T-Element” and has been installed in thousands of housing units across the country, including units owned by housing authorities, the military, and universities.

Starting in June, KCHA will begin to install the safety devices on more than 1,000 stoves at 24 housing communities. The project should be wrapped up by Labor Day.

The safety device limits the maximum temperature that electric burners can achieve to 662 degrees Fahrenheit. By comparison, unregulated burners on the “high” setting can reach temperatures of 1,300 degrees Fahrenheit – hot enough to melt aluminum pots and pans.

Even with this new temperature limit, the burners will still get hot enough to boil water and heat up cooking oils for all of your favorite dishes. But the burners won’t get so hot that oil can combust and catch fire.

Members of KCHA’s maintenance crew will install the safety devices, which takes about 45 minutes per stove. If your stove is equipped with the device, the maintenance crew member will leave you a fact sheet about it.

As part of the grant, KCHA, working with local fire departments, will have cooking safety classes for the residents living at the communities that receive the safety devices. The classes will be free for residents, who also will be able to watch a demonstration of how the device works.

In addition to the increased safety, residents also will benefit by saving energy due to the limitation on how hot the burners can get.

At a glance

The properties below will be equipped with safety devices to help prevent stove top fires. These properties were selected based on the vulnerable populations they serve and the ability of management/
maintenance teams to install and maintain the devices.

Some units at these properties may feature stoves that aren’t eligible to be equipped with the safety device. KCHA intends to apply for the same grant in subsequent years in the attempt to get the devices installed in all of its housing units.

Ballinger Homes
Brittany Park
Burndale Homes
Campus Court I
Cascade Homes
College Place
Eastside Terrace
Firwood Circle
Green Leaf
Gustaves Manor
Harrison House
Juanita Court
Kirkwood Terrace
Mardi Gras
Nia
Pickering Court
Plaza 17
Riverton Terrace – Family
Riverton Terrace – Senior/Disabled
Shoreham
Valli Kee
Victorian Woods
Vista Heights
Wayland Arms

 

 

GENERATIONS

News for Senior and Disabled Residents of KCHA Communities

 

 

Though weather is turning warmer, energy assistance funds still available

By Felix Rodriguez
King County Housing Authority

Though thousands of households already have benefitted from the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) during the 2009-10 funding season, there’s enough money left to continue to help others through the month of June and possibly beyond.

That’s partly due to the late arrival of LIHEAP grant funds locally and a milder than usual winter.

To be eligible for energy assistance, your household income must be no more than 125 percent of the federal poverty level. For example, the monthly income limit for a two-person household is $1,518.

To apply for LIHEAP benefits, you must make an appointment with one of the nonprofit agencies in King County that help manage the program locally. To do so, please call the Energy Appointment Line at 1-800-348-7144, where you will be directed to the nonprofit agency that serves your area (Hopelink covers North and East King County; the Multi-Service Center covers South King County).

New appointments become available each day at 9 a.m. Monday through Thursday for appointments that occur within the next 28 days.

Hopelink has done some additional outreach at KCHA properties and elsewhere to ensure as many eligible individuals and families are reached as possible.

Eastridge House resident Marsha Kastama recently applied for LIHEAP funds with help from Hopelink. She said that medical equipment in her home as well as medically necessary air conditioning make it hard for her to keep her energy costs down.

“This really helps out with my energy bills that run high all year,” Kastama said.

 

 

Free Senior Information and Assistance: Your gateway to resources for seniors

When you call Senior Services Information and Assistance, you’re well on your way to accessing thousands of resources, services, and programs available to King County residents who are age 60
and older. Think of us as a free, one-stop shopping gateway. Our professional, highly trained advocates make it easier for seniors, their family members, and caregivers to get the assistance they need. Interpreters are available for non-English speakers.

You’re just a phone call away from referrals to a wide range of services, including: Case management, chores, legal, Medicaid, nutrition, transportation, wellness and fitness, counseling, employment and health care.

Our information and resources are available in two ways: Your call to our toll free number – 1-888-435-3377 – will be answered live by a highly trained advocate who can help you assess your needs and pinpoint the most helpful information and assistance. We are available from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday.

If you e-mail info@ seniorservices.org, you’ll receive a prompt response.

When necessary, we will contact other organizations on your behalf. If you’re a person with intensive needs, we can arrange a home visit. Our advocates also answer questions about financial eligibility
requirements for a number of Medicaid programs.

The services of Senior Information and Assistance are free. Some of the community resources we link people with do have eligibility criteria and costs. Please contact us for current information on program
eligibility or cost.

 

 

 

Equipment can help deaf, hardof-hearing individuals use phone

Managed by the state Office of the Deaf and Hard of Hearing, the Telecommunication Equipment Distribution (TED) program provides specialized telecommunication equipment that enables Washington residents to have independent use of the telephone.

Who can use TED?

Washington residents ages 4 and older who are certified as deaf, hard of hearing, deaf-blind, or speech disabled are eligible to apply.

What type of telecommunications equipment is available?

Equipment options include the following:

  • An amplified telephone designed for individuals with moderate to severe hearing loss. The volume and tone can be adjusted to meet the individual’s specific needs.

  • A teletypewriter allows an individual to send and receive messages by typing. Messages appear on a display screen and also can be printed on paper.

  • A remote control speaker phone is a “hands-free” speaker phone for use by individuals with mobility limitations who also have a hearing loss or speech disability.

  • A voice carry over telephone allows an individual to read the incoming conversation and verbally reply, without typing their responses. Calls are placed through the Washington Relay Service. This phone benefits individuals who have difficulty understanding spoken conversations over the telephone.

  • A captioned telephone for individuals with severe to profound hearing loss. Individuals can communicate using their voices and read incoming conversation in text on the display screen. Users also may be able to use residual hearing to hear spoken conversation through an amplified handset.

  • Alarge visual display screen connects to either a teletypewriter or a voice carry over phone. Individuals with low vision find the large display much easier to read than the standard displays that come with those phones.
  • Alighted ring signaler is a device that causes a lamp to flash when the telephone rings.

How can I apply?

In order to receive telecommunication services, the application must be filled out completely, including the client’s income and recommendation from a professional such as a doctor, audiologist, or case manager. Applications are available in large print and in seven languages other than English. The application is available online at www.dshs. wa.gov/hrsa/odhh/ted.shtml.

How much does it cost?

The cost of equipment is based on a sliding fee scale. The client’s annual income and family size is any types financial assistance that you may be eligible for to help you cover the cost of purchasing a hearing aid.

Don’t let cost be the only deciding factor and end up with an ineffective hearing aid that you won’t use.Also, when purchasing a hearing aid, be clear on costs and what’s included. Some hearing aid dispensers bill separately for testing, hearing aids, and services. Others don’t. Information on coping with hearing loss - as well as on other issues related to living a healthier, happier life as an older adult -also is available by calling the free and confidential help line at 1-888-4ELDERS (1-888-435-3377 or TTY: 206-448-5025) or checking out the HAP website www.4elders.org. HAP is supported by its partner agencies, Public Health Seattle & King County and the Comprehensive Health Education Foundation. used to see if there is a cost to the client or not. Once your application is received, we will send you an invoice letting you know if there is a cost for the equipment. A trainer who will hook up the equipment and show you how to use it will contact you to set up an appointment. How can I find out more?

If you have any questions or comments, please contact us using our toll free number 1-800-4227930 (Voice/TTY) or by e-mail at odhh@dshs.wa.gov.

 

 

 

Mardi Gras residents share pancakes, conversation at recent brunch

Residents at Mardi Gras like coming together to share meals.

They enjoy catching up on the latest happenings in each other’s lives and tasting different types of food. So a recent, first-time brunch at the Kent property was well attended and well received by residents, who were treated to pancakes, eggs, fruit, and their choice of coffee or tea.

Property Manager Diana Sandusky and her team contributed a new griddle and new coffee maker to Mardi Gras, and the KCHA Resident Services Department provided a second griddle and other food and supplies for the event.

Serguei Nikitine, a KCHA Resident Services Coordinator, said he hopes to have the community brunch become a regular event at Mardi Gras.

 

 

Coping with hearing loss as we age

By the Healthy Aging Partnership

Everyone seems to be mumbling. Noises run together. You get frustrated at social gatherings because you can’t understand much of what’s being said. So you stay home, avoiding people, rather than face the embarrassment of hearing loss.

If you were having trouble seeing, you probably wouldn’t hesitate to make an appointment for glasses or contacts. But, somehow, hearing loss is another matter. A lot of people wear glasses, but a hearing aid?

Be it vanity, a lack of awareness, or concern over medical costs, many older adults have trouble confronting a problem that affects some 28 million Americans – or one in 10 people – according to the Healthy Aging Partnership (HAP), a coalition of more than 30 Puget Sound organizations dedicated to the health and well-being of older adults.

Age-related hearing loss begins about age 55, generally affects both ears, and is a permanent condition that worsens with time. Those older than 65 rank it as one of the most limiting of health problems, second only to arthritis. Yet about 60 percent of people who need hearing aids go without. They may deny the problem, get angry, and blame others: “Stop your mumbling!”

Psychologists who work with the hard-of-hearing say their patients go through a process similar to grieving. After denial and anger may come depression, self-imposed isolation, and eventually, acceptance.
Besides showing patience and understanding, family and friends can help by speaking clearly, slowly and face-to-face in quieter places, according to HAP.

Here are some more tips from the partnership for dealing with hearing loss:

• Schedule an appointment with your doctor or an ear specialist for a hearing test. A hearing aid, if one is recommended, won’t restore all of your hearing but can make it easier to cope.

• Be aware that advances in technology have resulted in smaller and more sophisticated hearing aids. Those that fit entirely inside the ear canal, for example, are next to invisible.

• Find the right hearing care. For information on hearing loss as well as professionals who provide hearing care and sell hearing aids, contact the Washington State Association – Self Help for Hard of Hearing People (www.hearingloss-wa.org) or the American Academy of Audiology (www.audiology.org) or call 1-888- 4ELDERS (1-888-435-3377 or TTY 206-448-5025). Be sure to ask about any types financial assistance that you may be eligible for to help you cover the cost of purchasing a hearing aid.

• Don’t let cost be the only deciding factor and end up with an ineffective hearing aid that you won’t use. Also, when purchasing a hearing aid, be clear on costs and what’s included. Some hearing aid dispensers bill separately for testing, hearing aids, and services. Others don’t.

Information on coping with hearing loss - as well as on other issues related to living a healthier, happier life as an older adult - also is available by calling the free and confidential help line at 1-888-4ELDERS (1-888-435-3377 or TTY: 206-448-5025) or checking out the HAP website www.4elders.org. HAP is supported by its partner agencies, Public Health Seattle & King County and the Comprehensive Health Education Foundation.

 

 

Residents with disabilities can seek Reasonable Accommodations

The King County Housing Authority is committed to providing accommodations to persons with disabilities so that their living arrangements are, as a whole, comparable to that of other applicants and residents.

Requests must be medically necessary and sufficiently tied to the individual’s disability. To request a reasonable accommodation, please talk to your property manager or resident services coordinator. Also, a copy of the reasonable accommodation request form for public housing applicants and residents is available on the KCHA Web site at www. kcha.org/currentresidents/sh_reasonable.aspx.

 

 

 

HEALTHY FAMILIES

News for Families Living in KCHA Communities

 

 

Find fresh, local fruits and vegetables at your farmers market

Below is a list of farmers markets in communities across King County. You may see different fruits and vegetables each week because the growing season is different for each one.

Also, the weather can change the time when a fruit or vegetable is ready to be picked.

Some markets also have handmade crafts and homemade breads and pastries.

Many of the markets have weekly activities and special events. Women, Infants, Children (WIC) Farmers Market Nutrition Coupons, Senior Coupons, and Food Stamp Quest cards are accepted by many of the markets.

AUBURN

Auburn International Farmers Market

Where: 23 A St. S.W.

When: 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sundays, June 13 to Sept. 26

BELLEVUE

Bellevue Saturday Farmers Market

Where: Downtown at Washington Square, 10610 N.E. Eighth St.

When: 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturdays, June 5 to Nov. 20

Bellevue Thursday Farmers Market

Where: First Presbyterian Church of Bellevue, 1717 Bellevue Way N.E.

When: 3 to 7 p.m. Thursdays, May 13 to Oct. 14

Bellevue Crossroads Farmers Market

Where: 15600 N.E. Eighth St.

When: Noon to 5 p.m. Tuesdays, May 25 to Oct. 5

BOTHELL

Bothell Farmers Market

Where: 23718 Bothell-Everett Highway

When: Noon to 6 p.m. Fridays, June 4 to Sept. 24

Country Village farmers market

Where: 238th and Bothell-Everett Highway (State Road 527)

When: 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Fridays, June 4 to Sept. 24

BURIEN

Burien Farmers Market

Where: Burien Town Square – Fifth and Southwest 152nd

When: 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Thursdays, May 6 to Oct. 14

FEDERAL WAY

Federal Way Farmers Market

Where: SeaTac Mall in the Sears parking lot, 320th and Pacific Highway

When: 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturdays, June 8 to Oct. 30

ISSAQUAH

Pickering Barn

Where: 1730 10th Ave. N.W.

When: 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturdays, April 17 to Oct. 16

KENT

Kent Farmers Market

Where: Town Square Plaza, Second and Smith Street

When: 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturdays, June 5 to Sept. 25

KIRKLAND

Kirkland Friday Night Market at Juanita Beach

Where: 9703 N.E. Juanita Drive

When: 3 to 7 p.m. Fridays, May 14 to Oct. 8

LAKE FOREST PARK

Lake Forest Park – Third Place (Commons Farmers Market)

Where: Bothell Way Northeast and Ballinger Way

REDMOND

Redmond Saturday Market

Where: 7730 Leary Way (northwest corner of Redmond Town Center)

When: 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturdays, May 1 to Oct. 30

WOODINVILLE

Woodinville Farmers Market

Where: Carol Edwards Center at 133rd Avenue Northeast and Northeast 175th Street

When: 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturdays, May 1 to Oct. 9

 

 

 

Simple Delights

This month: Penne with spring vegetables

While a healthy diet is the cornerstone to good health, meeting that goal can be a challenge. The recipe below conforms to the recommendations contained in the Dietary Guidelines for Americans. We hope you find it easy, tasty, and economical.

Penne with Spring Vegetables

Serves six.

Ingredients:

Nonfat cooking spray

1/2 cup onion, chopped

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 pound asparagus, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces

2 1/2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved

2 cups yellow squash, cubed

3/4 cup low sodium chicken broth

Salt and pepper, to taste (optional)

16 oz. package of penne pasta

6 fresh basil leaves, chopped

Directions:

  1. Spray a large skillet with cooking spray then heat over medium heat.

  2. Add onion and garlic, then cook for three minutes, stirring often.

  3. Add asparagus and cook an additional three minutes.

  4. Stir in the tomatoes and squash and cook for three minutes.

5.Add the broth and reduce heat to medium low and simmer, uncovered, for five minutes. Add salt and pepper to taste.

6. Cook pasta according to package instructions, then drain. Toss pasta with vegetable mixture and basil, then serve.

Nutritional facts per serving:

Calories: 330
Total fat: 2 grams
Saturated fat: 0 grams
Cholesterol: 0 milligrams
Sodium: 23 milligrams

 

 

News notes

Financial literacy classes coming up in Kent, Redmond

Kent

The Multi-Service Center offers a weekly, six-hour finance class called “Show Me the Money” at the center located at 515 W. Harrison St., Suite 205, Kent.

You’ll learn ways to control your money, build your budget, cut expenses, understand basic credit and credit cleanup, basic taxes, the banking system, and insurance.

Weekly class schedules vary, but include one Saturday per month and are by reservation only. For more information on dates and/or to reserve a seat, please call Georgene at 253-854-4406 ext. 142.

Redmond

MoneySmart is a series of classes taught by volunteer banking professionals. The curriculum helps individuals build financial knowledge, develop financial confidence, and use banking services effectively.

Classes are weekly at 16225 N.E. 87th St., Building A1, Redmond and are scheduled this month for:

  • 7 to 9 p.m. June 8
  • 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. June 15

  • 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. June 22

  • 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. June 29

Pre-registration is required. To register, please call 425-943-7567.

Education assistance available for female students

Applications for Washington Women in Need’s next education grant cycle will be available online for two days this month – June 15 and 16 – at www.wawomeninneed.org.

The grant covers up to $5,000 in costs for tuition and books per year for up to two years at accredited schools in Washington state. Low-income female students ages 18 and older are eligible with eligibility determined on a case-by-case basis. Applicants must be enrolled in a program of study at an institution that accepts federal financial aid.

Students whose tuition is fully covered by other grants and scholarships aren’t eligible.

For more information, please call 425-451-8838, e-mail wwininfo@ wawomeninneed.org, or go online to www. wawomeninneed.org.

 

 

 

Ballinger Action Teens’ Haiti benefit dinner a success

By Morgan Moore
Center for Human Services

It was a first for the Ballinger Action Teens group – a service-oriented club of teenagers who live at Ballinger Homes in Shoreline.

Though they’ve participated in many community service projects, members had never organized their own fundraiser – until this spring. The teens began using their weekly meetings to plan an event that would benefit the Haiti relief effort, following a catastrophic earthquake in the Caribbean island nation earlier this year.

They decided to invite community members to a cultural benefit dinner. Throughout March and April, BAT members designed invitations, a menu, decorations, and a plan for the evening. The menu boasted items from eight different countries: Afghanistan, Belarus, Eritrea, Ethiopia, Kenya, Russia, Somalia, Ukraine, and Vietnam.

The April 24 event was at Vineyard Community Church – a partner of the Center for Human Services, which supports BAT and its activities. Members of the VCC congregation, Homework Factory volunteers, Shorecrest High School teachers, Shoreline City Council members, Ballinger residents, CHS staff, friends, family, and other community members graciously attended the event and enjoyed plates piled high with food from around the world.

In addition to selling event tickets, BAT also hosted a raffle during the meal with prizes such as scarves from Afghanistan, homemade pies, gift baskets, and gift certificates.

The group showed a PowerPoint presentation about their club and a video about relief efforts in Haiti. After the video, event attendees had a chance to donate money to those efforts.

After covering expenses, BAT will send about $900 to Haiti through the American Red Cross. This was a very successful first fundraiser, and the group would like to thank everyone who supported it.

 

 

 

YWCA Job search 101

This month: Tips to help you kick start your job search

By Natalia Arredondo – YWCA L earning Center
Special to The Voice

Are you in need of a job and don’t know where to start? Here are a few tips to get you going.

•Agreat place to start your job search is at your local career center or WorkSource center. These centers offer plenty of resources such as Internet access, on-site trainings (usually free), updated job openings, and résumé, and cover letter help.

• Local newspapers, employment guides, and the Internet are great tools to find local job openings along with instructions on how to apply for positions in which you are interested.

  • Attend job fairs and hiring events when possible. Often, you can meet with the actual hiring manager and receive an on-the-spot interview that day.

  • Remember to always keep an updated résumé on hand.

  • When applying in person for a job, remember to present yourself in a positive manner and be respectful to any staff with whom you might come in contact.

  • Always check on the status of your application by contacting the employer or stopping by again. This shows your determination and desire to find employment.

  • When offered a job interview, do not stop applying to other jobs until you are offered the job position.

  • Before your interview, research the company where you are going to interview. Find out what they do, their mission and vision statements, and how long they have been in business. This will prepare you for some of the questions the employer might ask you and may raise questions you might want to ask the employer.

  • On the day of your interview, arrive to the interview about five to 10 minutes early, dress professionally, and maintain good hygiene. Shake the interviewer’s hand and maintain eye contact.

  • During the interview, stay confident, talk highly about your achievements, and why you would be a great asset to their company.
  • After the interview, remember to thank the interviewer and ask when the hiring decision will be made.

These are just a few of many tips that can help you get closer to your dream job.

From noon to 3 p.m. every Friday, the YWCA Greenbridge Career Development Center offers a job readiness class that helps individuals with job search assistance, résumé and cover letter writing, and many other crucial skills to help you look for employment. For more information, please call 206-336-7000 or stop by the YWCA Career Development Center at 9720 Eighth Ave. S.W., Seattle.

For a complete list of YWCA job help locations in King County, go to www.ywcaworks.org, click on the link to “Employment” and then click on the link to “YWCA Career Development Centers.”

 

Schools offer free summer meals

Children younger than 19 can eat free meals this summer at locations organized by the following school districts:

AUBURN SCHOOL DISTRICT

June 28-Aug. 27, Monday through Friday

  • Burndale Homes, 930 18th Place N.E. Lunch: 11 to 11:15 a.m.

  • Firwood Circle, 314 37th St. S.E. Lunch: Noon to 12:30 p.m.

BELLEVUE SCHOOL DISTRICT

July 6-July 30, Monday through Friday

• Sherwood Forest Elementary, 16411 N.E. 24th St. Breakfast: 7 to 8 a.m. Lunch: 11:30 a.m. to 1:15 p.m.

June 21-Aug. 13, Monday through Friday

• Lake Hills Elementary, 14310 S.E. 12th St. Breakfast: 8:30 to 9:30 a.m. Lunch: Noon to 1:30 p.m.

HIGHLINE SCHOOL DISTRICT

July 6-July 29, Monday through Thursday

• Cascade Middle School, 11212 10th Ave. S.W. Breakfast: 8 to 8:30 a.m. Lunch: Noon to 12:30 p.m.

July 12-Aug. 11, Monday through Thursday

• White Center Heights Elementary, 10015 Sixth Ave. S.W. Breakfast: 9 to 9:30 a.m.

Lunch: Noon to 12:30 p.m.

KENT SCHOOL DISTRICT

June 21-Aug. 27, Monday through Friday

  • Birch Creek Apartments, 12910 273rd St. Lunch: Noon to 1 p.m.

  • Cascade Apartments, 20524 106th S.E. Lunch: 12:30 to 1:15 p.m.

  • Valli Kee Apartments, 23401 104th Ave. S.E. Lunch: Noon to 1 p.m.

June 23-Aug. 19, Tuesday through Thursday

  • Kiwanis Tot Lot #1, South First Avenue and West Crow Lunch: 1 to 1:30 p.m.

  • Kiwanis Tot Lot #2, North Second Avenue and West Cloudy Street Lunch: 1 to 1:30 p.m.

  • Morrill Meadows Park, 10600 S.E. 248th St. Lunch: 11:30 a.m. to Noon

  • West Fenwick Park, 42nd Avenue South and

    Reith Road Lunch: 11:30 a.m. to Noon

July 6-July 29, Monday through Thursday

  • East Hill Elementary, 9825 S. 240th St. Lunch: Noon to 12:15 p.m.

  • Meeker Middle School, 12600 S.E. 248th St. Lunch: 11:30 a.m. to Noon

July 6-July 30, Monday through Friday

• Mill Creek Middle School, 620 N. Central Ave. Lunch: 11:30 a.m. to Noon

 

 

TRANSLATIONS

Translated Articles for Our Families

 

Sus niños pueden recibir comidas gratis este verano.

Niños que tienen 19 años o los más jóvenes pueden comer gratis este verano en locaciones organizadas por distritos de escuela de área y otras organizaciones de comunidad. El programa federal del Servicio del Alimento del Verano fue establecido para asegurar que niños en áreas de bajo-ingresos continúen recibir comidas nutritivas durante descansos largos de escuela, cuando ellos no tienen acceso para educar comidas. Las comidas y los bocados están también disponibles a personas con incapacidades, más viejo que se envejece 18, que toma parte en programas de escuela para personas que son mentalmente o físicamente incapacitados. La mayoría de las sitios de comidas de verano ofrecen la comida aunque algún ofrece a un desayuno oo un bocado también. Una lista de sitios de comida de verano ser encontrada en las Noticias de KCHA sección de Familias saludables. En caso de que información de sitio de comida no estuviera disponible en el tiempo por la fecha tope de impresión de junio, verifica por favor la sección de Noticias de KCHA en julio para sitios adicionales posibles cerca de usted. Usted no tiene que registrar a sus niños en el avance ni llenar papeleo en la orden para ellos recibir comidas durante el verano. Todo debe hacer es marca segura que sus niños llegan en una locación de comida que sirve su área durante el tiempo especificado de comida. Típicamente, las comidas no son servidas en las vacaciones como el Cuarto de julio.

CON EM CỦA QÚI VỊ CÓ THỂ NHẬN ĐƯỢC BỮA ĂN TRƯA MIỄN PHÍ TRONG MÙA HÈ NÀY

Trẻ em dưới 19 tuổi có thể ăn các bữa ăn trưa miễn phí trong mùa hè này ở tại các địa điểm mà khu học chánh ấn định hay ở các cơ quan trong cộng đồng.

Chương trình Phục Vụ Thực Phẩm Mùa Hè của chính phủ liên bang muốn làm chắc rằng trẻ em trong các gia đình có lợi tức thấp đều có thức ăn dinh dưởng trong suốt mùa hè, lúc mà chúng không được ăn các bữa ăn nơi trường học.

Các bữa ăn và thức ăn nhẹ cũng được cung cấp cho trẻ em bị khuyết tật trên 18 tuổi, mà có ghi tên đi học, và cho trẻ em bị bịnh tâm thần hay khuyết tật.

Phần lớn các khu vực đều có phát các bữa ăn trưa, nhưng cũng có số nơi cung cấp bữa ăn sáng và thức ăn nhẹ khác.

Một danh sách của những nơi có cấp phát bữa ăn trưa trong tòan quận King đuợc niêm yết trong mục Sức Khỏe Gia Đình của Nha Cấp Phát Gia Cư quận King (KCHA). Trong trường hợp thông tin về các địa điểm cấp phát bữa ăn trưa chưa được niêm yết vào giờ chót lúc số báo tháng Sáu được in, thì xin vui lòng đọc mục tin tức KCHAtrong số tháng Bảy để biết thêm các địa điểm được mở ra gần nhà của qúi vị.

Qúi vị không cần phải ghi tên trước, hay phải điền đơn để nhận các bữa ăn trưa trong mùa hè. Qúi vị chỉ cần chắc rằng con em của qúi vị đến đúng giờ ở các nơi cấp phát bữa ăn trưa-giờ giấc sẽ đuợc ấn định tùy theo từng địa điểm cấp phát.

Lưu ý là không có cấp phát các bữa ăn trong những ngày lễ, thí dụ như lễ 4 tháng Bảy.

Your children can receive free meals this summer

Ваши дети могут бесплатно питаться этим летом

Дети моложе 19 –ти лет могут бесплатно питаться в пунктах, организованных местными школьными районами и другими общественными организациями. Федеральная программа летнего питания была создана для того, чтобы дети из малообеспеченных семей могли продолжать полноценно питаться во время долгих летних каникул, когда они не имеют доступа к школьному питанию. Питание доступно также для людей старше 18-ти лет, которые имеют физическую или психическую инвалидность.

Большинство летних пунктов питания обеспечивают ланч, хотя некоторые также предлагают завтрак и лёгкую закуску.

Перечень мест летнего питания в округе Кинг можно найти на странице KCHA News в секции Healthy Families. В том том случае, если информация о пунктах питания не была сообщена в июньском выпуске, вы обязательно найдёте дополнительную информацию о ближайших пунктах питания в июльском выпуске KCHA News.

Вы не должны заранее регистрировать своих детей или заполнять заявления для того, чтобы дети могли получать летнее питание. Всё, что вы должны сделать, это быть уверенными, что ваши дети придут вовремя на пункт питания в вашем районе.

Обычно питание не обеспечивается в дни праздников, таких как День независимости 4-го июля.

CARUURTAADA WAXAY HELIKARAAN CUNTO LACAG LAAAN XILIGAN JILAALKAAN (SUMMER)

Caruurta kayar 19 sano waxay cuni karaan cunto lacaglaan ah xi-ligan lajoogo eelilaalka , waxayna kalali karaan meelaha ay mamulaan hogaanka iskodada degmaala iyo heyadaha adeega dadweynaha.

Barnaamijkadowlada ee cunto bixinta xiliga jilaalka waxaa loo asaasay in la huiyo in caruurya kadhalatay qoysaska dhagaalahoola hooseeyo meelaxa ay kunoolyihiin ay kaxelikaraana cunto nafaqo lehxiliga dheeeree iskuulku xiran xelinka jireen iskuulada marku ay furnaayeexin .

Cunta iyu rashiin fudud inuba waxaa kale lasilacay laaan am ku xeli kara dada cuuryaamiinta au ee kaweyn 18 sano, kuwaka qeyb qaata howlaha iskuuxda ama jirka kaleba.

Inta badan meelaxa cunta jilaalka ( summer) laga cuno ama bixiya, waxay bixiyan qado meelaxa qaarkoodnna waxay bixiyaan quraaac iyo caserio(cunto fudud)

Liiska meelaha ilaga helikaro cuntodan lacay laanta an dhinac walba oo king county, waxaa laga helikaraa joornaalka kaoo baxa(King County howsing authority) hayada guriyuynta ,qaybta caafimaadka qaysaska.

Haddii meelaxa cuntada lagabixiyo aadkaweydo,xiliga ugu dambeey daabacaada bisha juun wa xaad ka fiirisaa joornaalka ay so o saarto hayada guryaha (KCHA) bisha todabaad ee luulyo(july) daabacadeeda waxaa suurta galah inaada helo meelo kale oo dheeri ah oo ilagaxeli karo meelo kale o dheeri ahoo lega heli karo cuunto oo kuudhow.

Umabaahnid ini aad waqti hore sii qirtid canurtaada ama aad wara aqa buuxiso si aad canurataada ugu xesho cuunto nafaqa lehi xiliga jilaalka .

Waxa keliya eeaadubaahan tahay waxaa weeye inaad caruurtaada geyso meesha cuutada ilagu bixinayo ee kuudhow xiliga cuutada la bixinayo ,iyogoo aam dibudhicum.

Ru ahaantii cunto lama bixuyo maamalahu fasaxa ali sida afarta luuliyo ( fourth of july)

 

 

 

TRANSLATIONS

Translated Articles for Our Senior and Disabled Residents

 

Senior information and Assistance: Your gateway to resources for seniors

Информация и помощь для пожилых – доступ к источникам

Когда вы звоните в службу информации и помощи пожилым, вы уже на пути к тысячам ресурсов, служб и программ, доступных для жителей округа Кинг старше 60 лет. Воспринимайте нас как бесплатную раздачу в одном месте. Наши опытные работники могут с лёгкостью помочь пожилым, членам их семей и людям, заботящимся о пожилых найти необходимую помощь. Обеспечиваются переводческие услуги для не говорящих по-английски.

Один телефонный звонок отделяет вас от направления на широкий аспект услуг, включая персональное ведение дела, уход за домом, юридические консультации, Медикейд, советы о питании, транспорт, здоровье и его поддержка, консультации, трудоустройство, медобеспечение.

Наша информация и ресурсы доступны двумя путями:

Вы можете позвонить по бесплатному телефону – 1-888-4353377 и вам персонально ответит высококвалифицированный работник, который может помочь вам в ваших нуждах и направить к источникам необходимой вам информации и помощи. Мы работаем с 8 утра до 6 вечера с понедельника по пятницу.

Если вы свяжетесь с нами по электронной почте info@seniorservices.org, то получите немедленный ответ.

От вашего имени мы можем при необходимости связаться с другими организациями. Если вы не в состоянии передвигаться, мы можем назначить визит на дому. Наши представители также отвечают на вопросы о финансовых условиях для нескольких программ Медикейда.

Услуги службы информации и помощи пожилым бесплатны. Некоторые общественные ресурсы, с которыми мы связываем людей, имеют определённые требования и стоят денег. Пожалуйста, свяжитесь с нами для получения свежей информации о программе или её стоимости.

THÔNG TIN VÀ TRỢ GIÚP DÀNH CHO NGƯỜI CAO NIÊN: CỬA NGÕ ĐẾN NGUỒN TRỢ GIÚP CHO NGƯỜI GIÀ

Khi qúi vị gọi điện thọai cho cơ quan Thông Tin và Trợ Giúp cho Nguời Cao Niên, thì qúi vị đang tiếp xúc hàng ngàn nguồn trợ giúp, dịch vụ, và các chương trình phục vụ có sẵn dành cho cư dân 60 tuổi trở lên đang cư ngụ trong quận King. Hãy nghĩ đến chúng tôi như cửa ngõ miễn phí, một chận dừng mua sắm đủ thứ. Những nhân viên chuyên nghiệp được huấn luyện kỷ để trợ giúp, tạo mọi sự dễ dàng cho qúi vị, người thân trong gia đình qúi vị, và người chăm sóc qúi vị nhận được sự giúp đở mà họ cần. Đối với người không nói được tiếng Anh, sẽ có người thông dịch sẵn sàng.

Qúi vị chỉ cần gọi cuộc điện thọai để nhận được các sự giới thiệu chuyển đến hàng lớp các dịch vụ, gồm cả việc trợ giúp lâu dài, trợ giúp cho việc chăm sóc trong nhà, trợ giúp vấn đề pháp lý, trợ giúp y tế, dinh dưỡng, chuyên chở, tập thể dục , tư vấn, xin việc làm, chăm sóc sức khỏe.

Các thông tin và nguồn trợ giúp được cung ứng bằng 2 cách

Qúi vị gọi cho số điện thọai miễn phí 1-888-435-3377 – có người ở đầu dây sẽ hướng dẫn qúi vị tiếp cận với những nhu cầu mà qúi vị đang cần, và chỉ dẫn những nguồn thông tin và sự trợ giúp thực dụng nhất. Chúng tôi sẵn sàng từ 8 giờ sáng đến 6 giờ chiều , từ thứ Hai đến thứ Sáu.

Nếu qúi vị dùng điện thư qua địa chỉ info@seniorservices.org, thì qúi vị sẽ nhận được sự trả lời ngay sau đó.

Khi cần thiết, chúng tôi sẻ giúp qúi vị để liên lạc các cơ quan khác thay cho qúi vi. Nếu thấy rằng qúi vị thực sự cần sự giúp đở, chúng tôi sẻ thu xếp để đến tận nhà quí vị. Nhân viên trợ giúp của chúng tôi cũng trả lời các câu hỏi về những điều kiện đòi buộc để xin những chương trình trợ cấp y tế .

Các dịch vụ của cơ quan Thông Tin và Trợ Giúp cho người cao niên đều miễn phí. Có một vài nguồn thông tin trong cộng đồng mà chúng tôi giới thiệu đến có qui định điều kiện hợp lệ và thu lệ phí. Xin vui lòng liên lạc với chúng tôi để nhận thông tin hiện hành về các chương trình dịch vụ có thu lệ phí.

No somali translation

The Voice did not receive a translation in Somali for this section. We apologize for the inconvenience and will do our best to include a Somali translation in next month’s issue.

 

 

WHITE CENTER SCENE

News about the Greenbridge and Seola Gardens Communities

 

 

KCHA resident sees grocery business grow in White Center

By Heather Miller
King County Housing Authority

Maryan Dirir has always wanted to be a businesswoman.

When she lived in her native Somalia, she managed two grocery stores. So when she had the opportunity to open one in the community she now calls home – White Center – Dirir jumped at the chance.

“She really likes meeting new customers and seeing new faces every day,” said Ayan Kaynan, Dirir’s daughter, who spoke on her mother’s behalf. “She’s a very open person.”

The family moved into the former Park Lake Homes II community in 2000 but relocated to Greenbridge last year as the Park Lake II property prepared for a major redevelopment project.

With ongoing case management support from one of KCHA’s partners – the YWCA of Seattle and King and Snohomish Counties – Dirir opened White Center Mini Market & Halal Meat last year at the corner of Southwest 98th Street and 16th Avenue Southwest. She’s also getting ongoing support from KCHA’s Resident Opportunity Plan – a new program intended to help residents increase their income and achieve economic independence.

“We have everything from food to diapers,” Kaynan said of the store. “We have bedding – like comforters and blankets – and we have kitchenware.”

In addition to basics such as milk and cereal, the store also offers an array of East African cooking products that may be difficult to find at other markets. Examples include special types of curry, cumin, and coriander.

“We also carry a lot of different kinds of meats and fish – things you can’t find anywhere,” Kaynan said. In March, Dirir expanded her store’s offerings to include a deli that’s open from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. It features dishes from around the globe such as Italian sandwiches, sanbusas – which are a popular snack from the Horn of Africa to CentralAsia— Somali mandhazis, and Greek gyros.

“It’s doing really well because of all of the different cultures represented,” Kaynan said of the deli. “People really like it.”

 

 

Boys & Girls Club members deemed recycling champs

By Stacie Castelda
King County Housing Authority

During a recent pizza party to celebrate the efforts of the Southwest Boys & Girls Club recycling club, 8-year-old Natalie Withby had a proud statement to make.

“I did something to save the earth!” she told KCHA AmeriCorps member and recycling club co-leader Whitney Hunt. “I recycled five things and reused five things.”

Natalie, along with 19 other club members, participated in the KCHA-sponsored “Biggest Loser Garbage Challenge.” During the six-week challenge, club members:

  • Designed recycling lab coats from old button-up shirts
  • Reused newspapers for papermâché projects
  • Constructed trash monsters out of recyclables
  • Planted flowers in empty soda bottles
  • Learned about reducing waste, reusing materials, recycling, and composting
  • Monitored the club’s garbage and recycling containers

At the end of the challenge, club members were treated to a pizza party where they demonstrated their recycling knowledge for their peers and were awarded Recycling Champions certificates.

 

 

 

 

News Notes

Greenbridge Library

• Family Story Time: 2 p.m. June 16, 23, and 30. Join us in the meeting room for 30 minutes of books, songs, rhymes, and silliness!

The Greenbridge Library is at 9720 Eighth Ave. S.W., Seattle. It’s open from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Wednesday, from 1 to 8 p.m. Thursday, and from noon to 4 p.m. Saturday. For more information, please call 206762-1682.

White Center Library

• Study Zone: 6 to 8 p.m. June 1, 2, 3, 8, 9, 10, 15, 16, and 17. Drop in during scheduled Study Zone hours for free homework help from trained tutors.

• World Language Story Time: 6 p.m. June 29. Join us for Vietnamese stories, songs, rhymes, dances, and more!

• Family Story Time Treasure Chest: 6:30 p.m. June 30. Come and discover a treasure chest full of stories, songs, and much more!

The White Center Library is at 11220 16th S.W., Seattle. It’s open from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday through Thursday and from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Friday and Saturday. For more information, please call 206-243-0233.

Highline Public schools

• June 4, 11, and 18: Professional Collaboration Time (Early Dismissal)

• June 23: Last day of school

 

 

White Center Food Bank recognized for excellence in client service

The White Center Food Bank won runner-up in the category of Excellence in Client Service at the Food Lifeline annual conference this spring. The food bank was recognized for its work in serving the diverse community.

In the last year, the White Center Food Bank has hired bilingual Spanish and Vietnamese intake workers to help clients navigate the check-in process more smoothly. Digna Granados and Toan Nguyen are the new faces you’ll see at the front desk.

Another customer service improvement the food bank has made in the past year is the purchase of diverse foods. The White Center Food Bank is now providing halal meat to Muslim clients. In addition, fresh corn tortillas, rice, and pinto beans are available as a choice for clients. The food bank is regularly buying these items as well as milk and eggs.

How you can help

The White Center Food Bank distributes food to 1,500 families a month using two full time employees and about 200 volunteers a month. Volunteers are the key to operating this very busy place. The food bank especially needs volunteers who speak Vietnamese, Spanish, Cambodian and Russian. This helps the clients feel more comfortable. Volunteers hand out food to clients and work in the warehouse from 10 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Monday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday. The food bank is also looking for drivers to go to local businesses to pick up food donations. Drivers must have a clean driving record. If you are interested in volunteering, please contact Audrey Zemke at 206-762-2848 or by e-mail at audrey@whitecenterfoodbank.org.