KCHA News -- January 2010
A resource for King County Housing Authority residents
One girl plans to work even harder to get good grades at school. Another is thinking about what major she’d like to pursue in college.
Those are just some of the sentiments expressed by high school-aged Girl Scouts from Birch Creek, Cascade Apartments, and Valli Kee Homes after a recent “Scouting Out Western Washington University” tour. The girls had an abundance of opportunities to explore aspects of the university and college life. Some highlights included: talk time with college students, a campus tour, a “meet and greet” with the women’s volleyball team, and academic “taster” sessions at the planetarium and in robotics.
“I wanted to explore different colleges as much as possible because I want to attend one that suits me best,” one girl wrote on a feedback form after the tour. “I want to thank Mrs. Diana and the Girl Scout leaders for making this trip happen so that I can get a good education and future.”
Girl Scouts College Ready is a program implemented by Girl Scouts of Western Washington in cooperation with Kent Youth and Family Services at three KCHA communities – Birch Creek, Cascade and Valli Kee, supported by a three-year grant from College Spark Washington.
The Housing Authority wants to share some information with you about tenant utility allowances and how they may affect you.
What is a utility allowance?
A utility allowance is an amount of money to help tenants pay for reasonable utility bills. But it’s important to remember that most tenants don’t receive a check in the mail to help them pay for their utilities. Instead, the utility allowance is deducted from the amount they are required to pay in rent.
What are reasonable utility bills?
A utility allowance covers a reasonable amount of utilities that an energy-conscious household would use. It’s important to keep in mind that a utility allowance is not intended to cover all utility costs a tenant might incur, and it does not cover excessive or wasteful utility use.
How is my utility allowance calculated?
Utility allowances can be small or large, depending on what utilities you must pay on your own. The calculation includes factors such as climate, local utility rates, the number of utilities you use, and the size of your unit.
Which tenant-paid utilities are covered?
• Electricity
• Gas
• Heating fuel
• Water
• Sewer
• Trash collection
Which utilities are not covered?
• Telephone
• Cable television
• Internet
If the housing authority or your landlord pays the utility bills for your building and you do not pay for utilities, you are not eligible.
Is KCHA planning any changes to its utility allowance system?
In 2008, KCHA began reviewing its existing rent policies for the Public Housing and Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher programs. Our goal is to make those policies easier for you to understand and for staff to administer.
As part of the Rent Reform initiative, KCHA also is working to improve the way that utility allowances work for all Public Housing and Section 8 households. We want to simplify the system, make the utility allowance calculation easier for you to understand, and standardize how it works in both housing programs. Stay tuned for more information about possible ways the utility allowance system may be improved.
Throughout the Rent Reform process, we encourage you to share your thoughts with us by e-mail at rentreform@kcha. org.
News for Senior and Disabled Residents of KCHA Communities
Now that Casa Madrona has completed a $4.9 million renovation, resident Carol Anderson thinks her apartment building looks really lovely.
“I love it,”Anderson, who has lived at the Olympia property for 16 years, said at an open house in December to celebration the renovation. “It looks so fresh and new and more modern.”
Casa Madrona is one of eight public housing complexes that received vital safety improvements and remodeled community spaces as part of a recent $25 million financing transaction.
“We are committed to maintaining the highest possible standards of safety and well-being for our community’s seniors and persons with disabilities,” said Stephen Norman, executive director of the King County Housing Authority.
Olympia Mayor Doug Mah and Lacey City Councilmember Virgil Clarkson gathered with Casa Madrona residents at the open house.
“This renovation took an outdated 1970s structure and upgraded it to 21st century standards,” Mah said. “Not only is the result attractive, it has improved the safety of the building, contributing to the health and safety of our elderly and disabled neighbors and ensures that an important housing resource is preserved for years to come.”
The improvements at Casa Madrona included, but were not limited to:
• Replacement of the fire alarm and communications system and installation of a fire sprinkler system;
• Upgrading of emergency stairways with new railings, flooring and lighting;
• Addition of new, energy efficient lighting and controls, wall finishes for hallways, lobby, elevator, and laundry room;
• Replacement of ADA compliant doors and hardware at unit entries, common areas, and main entry;
• Reconfigured and reconstructed entry driveway and parking lot to improve site access;
• Reconfigured lobby and supportive services offices;
• Improved unit and common area ventilation;
• Completion of ADA upgrades, including new entry ramp improving accessibility for those with disabilities; and
• New roof and decks and repaired and repainted building exterior. “I think the building itself looks just wonderful,” resident Valerie Kolarik said. “I feel so lucky to be here.”
Apollo Equity Partners was the tax credit syndicator. Nationwide Insurance is the tax credit investor.
W.G. Clark was the construction contractor, and several residents said they were grateful to company workers for their attentiveness to resident needs and concerns.
“It was a really good crew,” said Earl Sandell, Casa Madrona’s key keeper. “I’m impressed with the whole outfit that did the job.”
Do you need a ride for local errands? Did you give up driving? Is taking the bus difficult? Are your children missing work to help you with your transportation needs? The Senior Shuttles might be able to help!
Senior Shuttles now offers 18 free van programs in many areas of King County. We transport seniors ages 55 and older and people with disabilities to hot meal programs, medical appointments, senior centers, grocery stores, and other local destinations.
Outside Seattle, Senior Shuttles provides rides to local destinations for those who live in the following communities: Burien, Des Moines, the Highline area, Lake Forest Park, Normandy Park, Shoreline, and the Snoqualmie Valley. There are no forms for you to complete; you can just sign up over the phone.
Scheduling hours are 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday, and rides are scheduled on a firstcome-first-served basis.
The service can give you an opportunity to socialize and stay active within your communities. Trained drivers provide you personalized transportation to your appointments and activities. Senior Shuttles vans also transport seniors to ethnic hot meal programs at numerous locations throughout King County. There is no charge for rides, but donations are welcome.
For more information about sites and days of service or to schedule a ride, please call 206-727-6262 or 1-800-282-5815.
Source: U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
Traditional American holiday foods such as ham and mashed potatoes joined Eastern European favorites like stuffed cabbage rolls and an array of dumplings at this year’s holiday potluck at Mardi Gras.
“It’s good food and good fellowship,” Ken Iverson, a Mardi Gras resident, said of the event. “It brings us all together. This is an opportunity to share with our neighbors.”
Originally from Ukraine and now a U.S. citizen, Mardi Gras resident Oksana Didkovskaya said she is hasn’t missed the holiday potluck since moving into the Kent building 15 years ago. She likes catching up with her neighbors, practicing her English, and exchanging holiday customs.
“Every time we come together, we learn about different foods and different ways of celebrating,” she said. “I really appreciate all of the people who live here and work here; I consider them a part of my family.”
The National Asian Pacific Center
on Aging Toll-free Multilingual
Helpline is a service available for
Asian Pacific Islander seniors. It’s a
vital source of information and assistance
for Asian seniors, who can
get direct bilingual assistance and
access to translated information on
a variety of issues, without the need
to navigate through intimidating
English voicemails, phone menus,
or operators.
The Helpline offers four separate
language lines – English, Chinese
(Mandarin and Cantonese), Korean,
and Vietnamese. Staff answer calls in
the caller’s native language. If calls
are made after business hours, the
voicemail that callers hear is also in
their native language.
The NAPCA Helpline can field
inquiries on topics ranging from
health care to tax refunds and more.
The Helpline assists seniors thoroughly
and completely, talking
them through an issue from beginning
to end. Helpline staff go above
and beyond what is required, often
making extra phone calls or doing
Internet research on a senior’s behalf
to resolve an issue or answer a
question.
NAPCA’s Research and Policy
team trains highly qualified multilingual
staff to handle higher-level
inquiries. The Helpline staff is supported
by a team of part-time employees
who are trained to assist in
handling call volume. During peak
times, volunteers are brought in and
trained by staff to answer messages,
fill out forms, and assist in other
ways.
During non-business hours, a
voicemail system is set in place; so
you’re welcome to leave a message
at any time.
The NAPCA National Multilingual
Toll-free Helpline numbers are:
English: 1-800-336-2722; Chinese:
1-800-582-4218; Korean: 1-800-582-4259; Vietnamese: 1-800-582-4336.
New Year’s resolutions are a dime Choose activities you enjoy and a dozen. Many folks, including lots can do daily. Your workout rouof well-intentioned older adults, tine should be something you can start exercising with great gusto maintain and adapt as your fitness only to get bored, strain a muscle, and circumstances change. In our and quit as their resolve dissolves. rainy winters, for example, you
The key to beginning a fitness may want to take your workout to a regimen that actually pays off is to community center or another indoor choose enjoyable activities you can facility. do regularly, and then, gradually Set specific goals, and track your step it up and mix it up, suggests the progress. Step up the intensity of Healthy Aging Partnership, a coali-your exercise regimen as you get tion of some 40 Puget Sound-area more fit, but don’t overdo it. Experts organizations dedicated to the health recommend a gradual increase of no and well-being of older adults. more than 10 percent at a time. If
If you’ve been sedentary, aim you’re too breathless to talk, you’re for at least 30 minutes of regular probably overdoing it. activity five days a week. Eventu-Play it safe. Always wear appro-ally, you’ll be rewarded by a boost priate shoes, clothing, and gear to in energy, lower blood pressure, prevent injuries. Take the time to stronger bones and muscles, better warm up and cool down, and drink balance, and an improved mental plenty of water. outlook. Vary what you do to keep bore-
Regular exercise also has been dom at bay. Do different activities shown to ease the effects of such on different days, swimming on chronic conditions as arthritis and Tuesdays, walking on Wednesdays, diabetes. gardening on Thursdays, for ex-
Most healthy adults can begin a ample. Mixing it up also helps you plan of moderate exercise – brisk work different muscles and avoid walking or cycling on a stationary injuries. bicycle – but men older than 40 and Everyday chores – vacuuming, women older than 50 should check mopping, and shopping – count. Fit with their doctors before launching in more fitness by taking the stairs into rigorous exercise such as jog-instead of the escalator, walking inging or singles tennis. stead of driving, and doing exercises
Adults with chronic conditions while watching television. or certain physical symptoms such Have fun! Get together with a as high blood pressure, diabetes, friend to exercise together. osteoporosis, and asthma, also are Remember that some activity, advised to consult their doctors even if it’s just walking the dog, is beforehand. better than none. Soon you’ll be able
Age and frail health aren’t excus-to do more. es to avoid activity. On the contrary, For more fitness options and illness and disability are more often answers to other questions related the result of inactivity, according to to life as an older adult, call HAP’s HAP. Particularly as we age, physi-free and confidential help line at 1cal fitness is critical to keeping our 888-4ELDERS (1-888-435-3377) health and independence. or e-mail hap@seniorservices.org.
The Healthy Aging Partnership To learn more about HAP and its offers the following tips for starting partner agencies, visit the Web site and sticking with an exercise plan: www.4elders.org.
News for Families Living in KCHA Communities
This month: Tortilla Chicken Pizza
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.
1/2 cup chopped, cooked chicken
4 tsp. olive oil
4 (6- to 7-inch) whole wheat tortillas
1/2 cup tomato or pasta sauce
1/2 cup fresh oregano, minced
1/2 cup vegetables of your choice, chopped and roasted
1/4 cup grated, low-fat mozzarella cheese
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 Tbsp. fresh basil, minced
Calories: 236
Total fat: 11 grams
Saturated fat: 3 grams
Cholesterol: 24 milligrams
Sodium: 518 milligrams
By Heather Miller
King County Housing Authority
Brian Bailey was excited about the chance to help residents connect with jobs and training opportunities. That’s why he decided to apply for a new position at KCHA: Resident Services Coordinator for the Section 3 Program.
If you’re not already familiar with the federal Section 3 Program, here’s how it works. When a company working under contract with KCHA needs to hire additional staff or workers for a KCHA project, that company is required – to the greatest extent possible – to hire low-and very-low income residents, particularly those who receive government housing assistance. Section 3 also provides opportunities for businesses that offer jobs to low-and very-low-income persons.
Bailey won’t serve as the main point of contact for Housing Authority residents, but he will be working behind the scenes with KCHA vendors to ensure that residents are being hired as often as possible.
“This is an opportunity for residents to not only gain work experience but to achieve a trade or skill that can last a lifetime, which is particularly important in this economic climate,” Bailey said.
Most Section 3 job openings are in construction-related fields, and those with specialized skills – such as carpentry or plumbing – are even more highly sought after. But Bailey emphasized that Section 3 openings can come in non-construction fields as well, including jobs at KCHA.
Bailey comes to KCHA from the YMCA of Greater Seattle and has a background in employment/job development services, youth and adult case management, and mental health counseling.
If you are interested in Section 3 employment, please contact one of the two service providers listed below:
YWCA Career Development Center at Greenbridge
9720 Eighth Ave. S.W.
Seattle, WA 98106
206-336-7000
Center for Career Alternatives
13111 S.E. 274th St.
Kent, WA 98030
253-639-1162
By ReWA Staff
Refugee and immigrant women and
their families have unique needs. In
order to gain the skills and knowledge
to navigate their way in their adoptive
country, many need help from someone
who understands both their culture and
their language.
The Refugee Women’s Alliance
Family Support Program provides a holistic
approach to assisting refugee and
immigrant families to make the transition
to self-sufficiency and integration
into American society while preserving
their own culture. ReWA’s Family Support Program offers services and resources
that assist clients to overcome obstacles by
providing the following services:
• Vocational English as a Second Language
(English for employment);
• Job readiness/work behavior training;
• Intensive job search;
• Job placement, followed by job retention
services;
• Social services to help individuals with
a wide array of services, such as access to
housing, legal services, immigration, child
care, obtaining driver’s licenses, utility
assistance, and information and referral to
ReWA programs and other agencies;
• Mental health counseling and workshops;
• Mental health consultation and training
to refugee and immigrant communities
and service providers.
Refugee and immigrants utilizing the
Family Support Program work with multilingual
Social Service and Employment
Specialists who create a comprehensive
plan to help individuals toward self-sufficiency.
ReWA’s programs are available to any
refugee or immigrant woman in need.
ReWA serves primarily women from
Southeast Asia, Eastern Europe, the former
Soviet Union, East Africa, and the
Middle East.
Outside Seattle, ReWA locations can
be found at:
BELLEVUE
Bellevue Office – Eastside Baha’I
Center
16007 N.E. Eighth St.
425-957-1919
KENT
Cascade Recreation Center
12910 S.E. 273rd St.
253-859-6197
Kent Office
232 Second Ave. S., Suite 107
253-859-6197
SEATAC
South King County Office
15245 International Boulevard,
Suite 207
206-957-2029
Hopelink can help North, East King County residents find a job
With its Employment Program, Hopelink helps clients find and keep a good job. Clients – who live in North and East King County – are linked with an Employment Specialist who helps them with setting goals and developing an action plan.
The action plan often includes: writing a résumé and cover letter, searching for jobs online, doing practice interviews, and talking about more education. The Employment Specialist will work with you on the strengths that you already have and can help you move toward economic self-sufficiency.
For more information, please call 425-885-0043 ext. 100.
Community Health initiative update for Birch Creek
A meeting is scheduled from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. Feb. 4 for Birch Creek residents to be updated on the Healthy Kids Healthy Communities Initiative and give feedback on the effort’s priorities and focus areas. The meeting will be in the Birch Creek Youth Center, 12910 S.W. 273rd St., Kent.
KCHA, in partnership with the Seattle Housing Authority and Public Health – Seattle & King County, has been awarded a four-year Healthy Kids Healthy Communities grant from the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation to improve opportunities for physical activity and access to healthy, affordable foods for children and families. The grant’s focus is on Birch Creek and the Greenbridge development in White Center as well as two Seattle Housing Authority communities.
Now is the time to begin planning for your child’s college education, and the state of Washington is ready and waiting to get you started. If you have a seventh- or eighth-grade student, he or she may qualify for the College Bound Scholarship program. This state-sponsored program, administered by the Higher Education Coordinating Board, makes the dream of going to college much more attainable for low-income students.
The four-year scholarship pays the cost of all tuition and fees (plus $500 for books) not covered by other state financial aid awards. In return, students promise to graduate from high school with a minimum 2.0 grade point average, demonstrate good citizenship, and seek admission to a Washington state college or university once they graduate.
Students are eligible if they meet just one of the following criteria:
• Receive free or reduced-price lunch at school
• Receive Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) benefits
• Are a foster youth
• Meet the income standards on the College Bound application
Signing up is free and easy. An online application is available in English as well as Chinese, Korean, Russian, Spanish, Ukrainian, and Vietnamese at www.hecb. wa.gov/CollegeBound. At that Web site, you also can find more information about the College Board scholarship and useful information that can help you start planning and preparing for college.
The deadline to sign up is June 30 of your child’s eighth-grade year, but there’s no need to wait until then. You can talk to your child’s counselor or teacher about signing up or just visit the HECB Web site today!
The College Bound Scholarship is intended to provide hope and incentives for students and families who otherwise might not consider college as an option because of cost. Thanks to the Washington Legislature, through the College Bound Scholarship, that has changed for thousands of students who dream of going to college but worried the price was beyond their reach.
If you or your child want to attend college in the 2010-2011 school year, you can take the first step toward receiving financial aid starting Jan. 1. To apply for federal financial aid and most state aid programs, students must complete what’s known as a FAFSA – the Free Application for Federal Student Aid.
Paper copies of the FAFSA are available from high school guidance offices, college aid offices, public libraries, or by calling 1-800-4-FED-AID. Students also can apply online – the fastest and most accurate way to apply – at www.fafsa.ed.gov. It is recommended that you submit a FAFSAas soon as possible after Jan. 1. School financial aid deadlines will vary and tend to be early. It is important to check with the schools that you’re interested in attending to find out their exact deadlines.
Before you apply, take time to gather the documents you need. Start with your Social Security Number, driver’s license, income tax returns, bank statements, and investment records. If you haven’t filed a tax return yet, you can still submit your FAFSA. You’ll just need to provide updated income and tax data once you have filed your tax return. You don’t have to be a U.S. citizen to be eligible for federal aid. Permanent residents, refugees, those granted asylum, and others are eligible. Even if you’re not eligible for federal aid, you should still fill out a FAFSA because it can help you determine if you’re eligible for state or college financial aid.
Kings Court center to celebrate grand opening Jan. 15
Please join us to celebrate the grand
opening of the Kings Court Family Support
Center at 6 p.m. Jan. 15 at 33312
22nd Lane S., Federal Way.
A recently finished construction project
more than doubled the center’s size and
added space for a computer lab, a classroom,
and maintenance storage. The center
and its new spaces are open to Kings
Court and Evergreen Court residents and
Federal Way residents participating in
the Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher
program.
Residents who attend the evening
celebration will be served dinner as they
familiarize themselves with the new center
and learn about program opportunities
available through Federal Way Youth and
Family Services.
Also on Jan. 15, a ribbon cutting is
scheduled for 8 a.m. Residents are welcome
to attend that event as well.
This month: Five resolutions to help you find employment in the New Year
By Mina Amin
YWCA Greenbridge Career Development
Now that 2010 has arrived, it’s a great
time for job seekers to make some New
Year’s employment resolutions! Below are
five resolutions to help you jumpstart your
job search in 2010.
1. Set clear goals, and create a list of
target employers. Take some time to really
think about the skills you have and the type
of work you wish to pursue. Then, create
a list of potential employers. Start looking
for employers in the field in which you’re
interested, and take some time to learn more
about what each one has to offer. This will
help you narrow down your search and learn
more about each employer so that you can
more effectively create a cover letter and
talk intelligently at interviews.
2. Use free job search resources available
to you.
• Network with the YWCA, the Center
for Career Alternatives, WorkSource, or
other employment centers to find out about
open job opportunities. You may be able to
connect with a case manager who could help
you with your employment goals and assess
if you are qualified for special employment
programs.
• Search for jobs online. That’s a great
way to network and weigh your current
employment opportunities. On the Web, you
can also apply quickly to a variety of jobs.
3. Create or update your résumé. Many
job seekers have a hard time finding employment
because their résumés are out of date.
To increase your chances of getting a job
you want, make a New Year’s resolution
to rework your résumé and to bring it up
to date. Remember, your résumé and cover
letter provide potential employers with their
first impression of you and what you have to
offer. So you need to make sure you stand
out from the competition. If you need help,
stop by the YWCA or another career center
near you.
4. Take some personal steps to prepare
for an interview. Make sure you have at
least one professional outfit. No matter
what the job is, sneakers, jeans, shorts, and
T-shirts are not acceptable. Also, make sure
you have a fresh haircut and maintain proper
hygiene. You want your first impression to
convey that you are serious about finding
employment.
5. Get your references in order before
you need them. When a company is seriously
interested in you as a potential hire,
you’ll likely be asked to provide three to
five references. It’s important to be prepared
with a list of references who can attest to the
skills and qualifications that you have for the
job you are applying for. It will save time
scrambling to put together a list at the last
minute. Former bosses, co-workers, customers,
and vendors all make good references.
Keep in mind that good references can help
you clinch a job offer.
Contact the YWCA
If you need help with your job search, the
YWCA can help.
We offer résumé and cover letter writing
assistance, computer training, e-mail setup,
case management programs, and even educational
programs.
Monday through Friday, please contact
the YWCA Greenbridge Career Development
Center at 206-336-7000 or by visiting
9720 Eighth Ave. S.W., Seattle, or the
YWCA Green River Career Development
Center at 253-735-7030 or by visiting 1102
Ninth St. S.E., Auburn.
Translated Articles for Families
Programa de apoyo puede ayudar a mujeres inmigrantes, familias
Mujeres inmigrantes y refugiadas y sus familias tienen necesidades únicos. Al desarrollar las habilidades y conocimientos, al encontrar su vida en su nuevo país, muchos necesitan ayuda de alguien a quien entiende su cultura e idioma.
El programa de apoyo familiar de las Refugee Women’s Alliance ofrece servicios y recursos que ayuda a los clientes por provee los servicios que sigue:
Ingles para un empleo.
Preparación por el trabajo/Entrenamiento sobre conducta en el trabajo
Búsqueda intensiva de trabajo.
Colocación del trabajo, sigue por servicios de retención del trabajo.
Servicios sociales para ayudar a personas con varios servicios, como acceso al hogar, servicios legales, inmigración, guardaría, conseguir una licencia de manejar,
Asistencia para las cuentas de electricidad, e información y remitir a programas de REWA y otros agencias;
Orientación salud mental y clases informativas;
Consulta de salud mental y entrenamiento a la comunidad, refugiadas e inmigrantes.
Personas refugiadas e inmigrantes que utilicen el programa, apoya a familias que trabajan con especialistas sociales bilingües y especialistas de empleo que hacen un plan comprensivo para ayudar a los individuos al ser autosuficiente.
Los programas de REWA están disponibles a cualquier inmigrante o persona refugiada que lo necesite. REWA ayuda primero las mujeres del sur, EsteAsia, el este de Europa, Unión Soviética, el este de África y el Oriente Medio.
Afuera de Seattle, se puede encontrar REWA:
BELLEVUE
Bellevue Office – Eastside Baha’I Center
16007 N.E. Eighth St.
425-957-1919
KENT
Cascade Recreation Center
12910 S.E. 273rd St.
253-859-6197
Kent Office
232 Second Ave. S., Suite 107
253-859-6197
SEATAC
South King County Office
15245 International Boulevard, Suite 207
206-957-2029
Support program can help immigrant women, families
Программа поддержки может помочь женщинам, семьям
Персонал ReWA
Женщины-иммигранты и беженцы имеют уникальные потребности. Для того, чтобы приобрести знания и навыки, необходимые для выживания в приютившей их стране многие нуждаются в помощи кого-то, понимающего как их культуру, так и язык. Программа поддержки семьи союза женщин-беженцев ReWA предлагает следующие сервисы и ресурсы, которые помогают клиентам:
Профессиональный английский как второй язык (английский для трудоустройства)
Подготовка к работе/поведение на работе
Интенсивные поиски работы
Устройство на работу с последующим закреплением на работе
Социальные услуги широкого диапазона такие, как поиски жилья, юридические услуги, иммиграционные службы, уход за детьми, получение водительских прав, помощь в оплате коммунальных услуг, а также информация и направление на программы ReWA и в другие агенства
Рекомендации и семинары по психическому здоровью
Психологические консультации и обучение членов общин иммигрантов и беженцев и обслуживающего их персонала.
Используя возможности программы поддержки семьи , многонационального агенства социальных услуг и специалистов по трудоустройству, организация помощи иммигрантам и беженцам выработала объемлющий план , как помочь людям на их пути к самообеспечению.
Программы ReWAдоступны для любой нуждающейся женщины-иммигранта или беженки.
ReWA обслуживает главным образом женщин из стран Юго-восточной Азии, Восточной Европы, бывшего Советского Союза, Восточной Африки и Среднего Востока.
За пределами Сиэтла ReWA можно найти в следующих местах:
BELLEVUE
Bellevue Office – Eastside Baha’I Center
16007 N.E.Eighth St.
425-957-1919
KENT
Cascade Recreation Center
12910 S.E. 273rd St.
253-859-6197
Kent Office
232 Second Ave.S., Suite 107
253-859-6197
SEATAC
South King County Office
15245 International Boulevard, Suite 207
206-957-2029
CHƯƠNG TRÌNH TRỢ GIÚP CHO PHỤ NỬ DI DÂN VÀ CÁC GIA ĐÌNH
Bài viết bởi nhân viên của cơ quan ReWA-Liên Hội Phụ Nử Tị Nạn
Người phụ nử tị nạn và di dân cũng như gia đình của họ đều có những nhu cầu độc nhất. Đó là xây đắp năng khiếu và kiến thức để đi thông qua con đuờng nơi xứ sở đón nhận họ, nhiều người cần sư giúp đở của người nào đó mà thông hiểu văn hóa và ngôn ngữ của họ.
Chương Trình Hổ Trợ Gia Đình của cơ quan ReWA cung ứng các dịch vụ và nguồn trợ giúp nhằm giúp đở họ qua các dịchvụ sau đây:
• Dạy Anh Văn để tìm việc làm
• Dạy chuẩn bị để sẵn sàng nhận việc làm/ hướng dẩn cung cách ứng xử nơi chỗ làm
• Dạy tìm việc làm cách tích cực
• Giúp tìm việc và sau đó giúp giữ vửng công việc làm
• Các dịch vụ xã hội để giúp các cá nhân với nhiều trợ giúp khác nhau, nhưng giúp xin nhà ở, dịch vụ pháp lý, di trú, giữ trẻ, xin bằng lái xe, xin trợ giúp tiền sưởi, cung câp các thông tin và giơi thiệu đến các ngành trong cơ quan ReWA hay các cơ quan khác
• Tư vân tâm thần và các lớp học hướng dẫn
• Tư vấn tâm thần và huấn luyện cộng đồng tị nạn và di dân và những người cung cấp các dịch vụ trợ giúp
• Những người tị nạn và di dân đang nhận dịch vụ trợ giúp từ chương trình Phục Vụ Gia Đình sẽ làm việc với các nhân viên nói được nhiều ngôn ngữ trong phân bộ Phục Vụ Gia Đình và Nhân Dụng, những nhân viên này tạo ra kế họach thực tế để giúp các cá nhân hướng tới việc tự túc.
• Các chuơng trình phục vụ ở cơ quan ReWA dành cho bất cứ phụ nử di dân hay tị nạn nào cần đến. Cơ quan ReWA trợ giúp các phụ nử có gốc từ đông nam châu Á, Đông Âu, liên bang Xô Viết cũ, đông Phi và Trung Đông.
Nếu ngụ ngòai thành phố Seattle, có thể tìm đến cớ quan ReWa ở các địa điểm sau đây:
BELLEVUE
Văn phòng Bellevue-Eastside
Baha’l Center 16007 NE 8 St.
425-957-1919
KENT Trung tâm
Cascade Recreation Center
12910 SE 273 St
253-859-6197
Văn phòng ở Kent
232 đường số 2 Ave S., phòng số 107
253-859-6197 SEATAC
Văn phòng khu South King County
15245 International Blvd, phòng 207
206-957-2029
Barnaamijka taageerada wuxuu caawinkaraa haweenka iyo qoysaskooda wadanka ku cusub
WQ: hawlwadeennada ReWA
Dumarka qaxootiga ah iyo qoysaskoodaba waxay qabaan baahi gooni ah, oo ay u qabaan barashada xirfad iyo aqoon ay ku dhegalaan dalkoodan cusub. In badan oo ka mid ah waxay u baahan yihiin inay hagaan dad fahmaya dhaqankooda iyo luuqaddooda.
Barnaamijka Taageerada Qoyska ee Hay’addan ReWA waxay haysaa adeegyo caawiya qoysaskaan oo kala ah:
• Barashada luuqadda Ingriiska ee caawiya shaqo helidda
• U diyaargarowga shaqooyinka
• Shaqo Raadin
• Shaqo gayn ay la socoto daba socosho si qofku uu u haysto shaqadiisa
• Adeeg-bulshadeed ka caawiya adeeyo kala duwan oo ay ka mid yihiin: guryeynta, sharciyada, socdaalka, xannaanada carruurta, helitaanka batantaha gaariga, bixinta biilasha, iyo macluumaad iyo u diritaanka adeegyada kale ee ReWA iyo hay’adaha kaleba.
• Caawinta caafimaadka maskaxda iyo siminaarro ku saabsan caafimaadka maskaxda
• Tababarka jaaliyaadda iyo ururada ee k u saabsan caafimaadka maxkaxda
Qaxootiga iyo dadka kale ee isticmaala adeegyada barnaamijka taageerada Qoyska ee ReWA waxa la shaqeeyada hawlwadeenno ku hadla luuqado kale duwan abuurana qorshe dhamaystiran ay ku caawinayaan shaqsiyaadkaan si ay u gaaraan isku filaansho.
Adeegyada ReWA waa u diyaar qofkasta oo dumar qaxooti ah oo u baahan adeegyadaas. ReWAwaxay inta badan u adeegtaa Dumarka ka yimid SouthAsia, Eastern Europe, iyo dhulkii hore loo dhihi jiray Soviet Union, East Africa iyo Middle East.
Bannaanka Seattle, Waxaad ReWA ka heli kartaan:
Bellevue
Baha’l Center
16007 N.E Eighth St.
425-957-1919
Kent
Cascade Recreation Center
1210 S. E. 273rd St.
253-859-6197
Kent Office
232 Second Ave. S., Suite 107
253-859-6197
SeaTac
South King County Office
15245 International Boulevard, Suite 207
206-957-2029
Translated Articles for Our Senior and Disabled Residents
Ancianos y ellos con incapacidades pueden recibir paseos gratis con Shuttle
¿Necesitas transportación para hacer los mandados locales? ¿Quitaste manejar?
¿Tomas el autobús con dificultad? Tus hijos están faltando al trabajo para poderte ayudar a transportarte? ¡Los Senior Shuttles posiblemente puedan ayudarte!
Senior Shuttles now offers 18 free van programs in many areas of King County.
Ahora, Senior Shuttles ofrece 18 pro-gramas de transportación gratis en muchas áreas de king county. Transportamos a los ancianos de edad 55 y de mayor edad y personas con incapacidades al programa de comida caliente, citas al doctor, centros para ancianos, tiendas de comida y otros lugares.
Afuera de Seattle, Senior Shuttles provee transporte para ellos que viven en las comunidades que son: Burien, Des Moines, la área de Highline, Lake Forest Park, Normandy Park, Shoreline, and the Snoqualmie Valley.
No hay formas que tienes que llenar. Puedes llamar para paseos entre 8am y 5pm lunes a viernes, y proveemos trans-porte para los que llaman primero.
Este servicio puede darte una oportunidad a socializarse y quedarse activa dentro de sus comunidades. Conductores entrenados proveen transporte personalizado a tus citas ó actividades. Camionetas de Senior Shuttles también transportan a personas mayores a los programas de comida caliente cultural en varias localidades de King County. No hay cobro para los paseos, pero los donativos son bienvenidos.
Para más información sobre los sitios y días de servicio o para planificar a un paseo, por favor llama a: 206-727-6262 o 1-800-282-5815.
NGƯỜI CAO NIÊN VÀ TÀN TẬT CÓ THỂ ĐUỢC ĐƯA ĐÓN MIỄN PHÍ
Qúi vị cần đi làm vài công việc vặt ? có phải qúi vị thôi không còn lái xe nữa ? có phải đón xe búyt là việc khó khăn cho qúi vị ? có phải con cái của qúi vị phải bỏ việc làm để đưa đón qúi vị ? (nếu thế thì) chương trình Senior Shuttles có thể giúp được qúi vị.
Senior Shuttles có 18 xe van phục vụ trong chương trình trong nhiêu khu vực thuộc quận King. Chúng tôi có chuyên chở những người cao niên từ 55 tuổi trở lên và những người tàn tật để đi đến cơ quan cung cấp các bữa ăn nóng, khám bịnh, các trung tâm phục vụ người già, đi mua sắm thực phẩm và các khu vực địa phương khác.
Bên ngòai thành phố Seattle, Senior Shuttles cung cấp việc chuyên chở đến những địa điểm địa phương dành cho quí vị cư ngu trong các cộng đồng sau đây: Burien, Des Moines, High-line, Lake Forest Park, Normandy, Shoreline và Snoqualmie valley.
Không cần phải điền đơn, qúi vị chỉ cần gọi điện thọai để ghi tên (xin xe).
Giờ giấc để gọi xin xe là từ 8 giờ sáng đến 5 giờ chiều từ Thứ Hai đến Thứ Sáu, và các cuốc xe dựa vào người nào gọi trước , thì đuợc đón đi trước.
Việc phục vụ có thể cho qúi vị cơ hội để kết thân quen biết và trở nên năng động trong công đồng.
Những người tài xế đã được huấn luyện sẻ cung cấp việc chuyên chở cho qúi vi đến nơi có cuộc hẹn, hay các nơi sinh họat của qúi vị.
Các xe van của Senior Shuttles cũng chuyên chở qúi vị đến các nơi cung cấp bữa ăn nóng dành cho các sắc dân ở nhiều địa điểm khắp nơi trong quận King. Không tính tiền lệ phí, nhưng nhận tiền cống hiến.
Muốn biết thêm thông tin và các khu vực, ngày giờ xe đưa đón, xin vui lòng gọi cho số 206-727-6262 hoặc gọi cho số 1-800-282-5815.
Пожилые инвалиды могут бесплатно ездить на маршрутке
Вы должны съездить по делам поблизости? Вы перестали водить машину? Вам тяжело ездить на автобусе? Ваши дети пропускают работу, чтобы вас возить? Маршрутки для пожилых могут помочь!
Маршрутки для пожилых сейчас предлагают 18 бесплатных программ во многих районах округа Кинг. Мы возим инвалидов 55 лет и старше на программы горячего питания, медицинские визиты, в центры для пожилых, продовольственные магазины и в другие ближайшие места. Вне района Сиэтла маршрутки для пожилых перевозят по окрестностям жителей Бюрена, Дес Мойн, района Хайлайн, Лэйк Форест Парк, Норманди Парк, Шорлайн и Снакомиш Валей.
Вам не надо заполнять никаких форм, вы можете просто записаться по телефону.
Время для записи с 8 утра до 5 вечера с понедельника по пятницу, все поездки назначаются по мере поступления заказа в порядке очереди.
Эта услуга даёт вам возможность общения и активного участия в общественной жизни. Опытные водители обеспечивают вам личный транспорт для ваших визитов и дел. Маршрутки для пожилых также возят пожилых на этнические программы горячего питания во многих местах округа Кинг. За поездки не надо платить, но пожертвования принимаются с благодарностью.
Для получения дополнительной информации о местах и днях работы службы или для назначения поездки звоните по тел. 206-727-6262 или 1-800-282-5815.
Waayeelka naafada ah waxay heli karaan gaadiid qaada oo bilaash ah
Ma u baahan tahay wax ku qaada markaad adeeg u baahan tahay? Ma nacday waditaanka ? bas raacidduse ma kugu adkaatay? Caruurtaaduse ma u gooyaan shaqadooda si ay adiga kuu qaadaan? Senior Shuttles ayaa laga yaabaa inuu arrimahaan kaa caawiyo.
Senior shuttles waxay leeyhiin 18 barnaamij oo ku baahsan dhamaan goobaha kala duwan ee King County. Waxaan qaadnaa waayeelka jira 55 sano ama ka weyn iyo dadka naafada ah ee raba in lageeyo xarumaha cuntada, ballamaha caafimaadka,xarumaha waayeeelka, dukaamada, iyo meelaha kale ee ay rabaan.
Wixii ka baxsan xadka magaalada Seattle, Senior Shuttle wuxuu ka shaqeeyaa xaaladaha kala ah: Burien, Des Moines, Highline area, Normandy Park, Lake forest Park, Shoreline, iyo Snoqualmie Valley.
Lagaagama baahna inaad foom buuxiso, waxaad isku diiwaan gelin kartaa telefoonka. Waqtiga socdaalku waa 8:00 AM-5:00 PM Isniinta-Jamcaha. Adeegaanu sidoo kale wuxuu ku salaysan yahay kan ugu hor saxiixa ayaa loogu hot adeegayaa.
Adeegu wuxuu kaa saacidayaa sidaad u bulshadaada u dhexgeli lahayd una noqon lahayd mid firfircoon. Wadayaal tababaran ayaa markasta kuu diyaar ah sidii ay kuu geyn lahaayeen goobaha aad u baahan tahay iyo ballamahaaga. Senior Shuttle waxay kaloo waayeelka u qaadaan goobaha laga bixiyo cunto dhaqameedyada eek u kala baahsan King County. Qaaditaanku waa bilaash balse deeq ahaan wax waad u bixin kartaa.
Wixii warbixin dheeraad ah oo ku saabsan goobaha iyo maalmaha aadeegaba , fadlan kala xiriir 206-727-6262 ama 1-800-282-5815.
News About the Greenbridge and Seola Gardens Communities
Fashion designer opens clothing business at Greenbridge
Carlisia “Mac” Minnis believes she has found her true calling.
The Seattle native grew up altering clothes for herself and her family and making fun tops to wear out on the town with her friends. Although she kept sewing into adulthood, Minnis didn’t pursue fashion as a career until about a decade ago, after studying apparel design at Seattle Central Community College.
“I loved it,” she said. “I thought to myself, ‘This is what I’m supposed to do.’”
Now, Minnis, who previously operated her business in Lake City, has opened Mac Fashion House at Greenbridge in one of the four live-work units along Eighth Avenue Southwest.
“It has been a true blessing to be able to move here and to keep my business,” she said.
By appointment, Mac Fashion House offers alterations, custom work, and light embroidery, and in addition to clothes, Minnis also works with accessories and home décor.
“I enjoy the freedom of expression,” she said. “I just love to design what I love.”
Since 2002, Minnis has had her own clothing line, which features mostly women’s fashions and that she describes as taking an urban or funky spin on simple designs.
“I like to put a hip, fun twist on things,” she said.
Since the birth of her 21-month-old son, Minnis has expanded her fashion design business to include boys’ baby clothes as well as nursing covers and changing pads.
“I noticed that there were so many (clothing) options for little girls,” she said. “I thought, ‘Little boys need their own line of hip, little clothes.’”
To make an appointment at Mac Fashion House, please call 206-322-2147 or e-mail info@MacFashionHouse.com.
Grand Opening in January
Mac Fashion House grand opening is scheduled from 4 to 9 p.m. Jan. 29 and from noon to 5 p.m. Jan. 30 at 9830 Eighth Ave. S.W., Suite 103, Seattle. Special discounts will be available at the opening.
By Public Health – Seattle & King
A wide variety of health-related services
are conveniently available to you at the
White Center Public Health Center.
Our services include:
• Assistance with filling out a medical
application or form, either over the phone
or in person;
• Assistance with planning and obtaining
medical care and other resources for a childwith a disability or a condition that may
prevent normal growth and development;
• Family planning services and education
and reproductive health care such as screening
for HIV and other sexually transmitted
diseases, pregnancy tests, birth control, and
referrals;
• Home visits by a Public Health Nurse
for pregnant women, mothers with new
babies, and families with health or parenting
concerns. Services include health assessment,
education and counseling, and
referral. Interpreters are available;
• Interpreter services for limited or non-
English speaking clients by appointment;
• Maternity support and screening services
such as individual education and
counseling for women and their partners
before birth, referral to appropriate prenatal
care, and much more;
• A teen clinic that provides education
and services for pregnancy prevention and
for pregnant, parenting teens and at-risk
teens;
• A Women, Infants, and Children nutrition
program, which is a supplemental
food program for low-income women who
are pregnant or breast feeding, infants, and
children.
For more information, please call 206-296-4595 or visit 10821 Eighth Ave. S.W.,
Seattle. The center is open from 8:30 a.m. to
5:30 p.m. Monday through Friday.
NEWS NOTES
Greenbridge Library
• Family Story Time: 2 p.m. Jan. 6, 13, 20, and 27. 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 206-762-1682.
White Center Library
• Study Zone: 6-8 p.m. Jan. 5, 7, 12, 14, 19, 21, 26, and 28. Drop in during scheduled Study Zone hours for free homework help from trained tutors.
• Game On!: 2:30 p.m. Jan. 6, 13, 20, and 27. Play your favorite multi-player video games on GameCube, Xbox 360 and the Wii.
•Alphabet Soup Family Story Time: 6:30 p.m. Jan. 6, 13, 20, and 27. Join us for stories, finger plays, and fun as we read our way through the alphabet.
• World Language Story Time: 6 p.m. Jan. 12 and 26. Join us for Vietnamese stories, songs, rhymes, dances, and 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.
Community Health Initiative Update for Greenbridge
A meeting is scheduled from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. Feb. 2 for Greenbridge residents to be updated on the Healthy Kids Healthy Communities Initiative and give feedback on the effort’s priorities and focus areas.
The meeting will be in the Joe Thomas Room of the Wiley Community Center, 9800 Eighth Ave. S.W., Seattle.
KCHA, in partnership with the Seattle Housing Authority and Public Health – Seattle & King County, has been awarded a four-year Healthy Kids Healthy Communities grant from the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation to improve opportunities for physical activity and access to healthy, affordable foods for children and families.
The grant’s focus is on Greenbridge and Birch Creek Apartments in Kent as well as two Seattle Housing Authority communities.
Highline Public Schools
• Jan. 8, 15, and 22: Early Dismissal for Professional Collaboration Time
• Jan. 18: Martin Luther King Jr. Day -- No School
• Jan. 28: End of the Second Quarter and End of the Semester
• Jan. 29: K-6 -- Early Dismissal for Professional Collaboration Time; Secondary -- No School