Resources for Parents & Families

Photo of woman and two children WorkFirst is Washington State's temporary cash assistance program. The goals of the WorkFirst Program is to help low-income families stabilize their lives, so they can go to work and take better care of their families. Parents who can work will work - parents who can not work will be supported – and parents who choose not to work will be held accountable. If a parent is able, but refuses to participate in their required WorkFirst activities, they risk sanction and could have their grant reduced by 40% or the person’s share, whichever is greater. If they continue in sanction for six consecutive months, they can be terminated from WorkFirst.

To find out whether you qualify for WorkFirst, link here or use the online Community Service Locator. To apply for WorkFirst, you can visit your local Community Services Office or APPLY ON-LINE today.

Link here to learn about specific Work Readiness resources available to help you find a job!

What services are available to help WorkFirst parents prepare for work?

Comprehensive Evaluation to quickly evaluate their work history, educational and training needs, abilities, and interests to identify the most appropriate employment plan. Once the plan is in place, WorkFirst staff and partners will work with the parent to engage them in activities that will prepare them to go to work.

Activities may include:

  • Employment Services (including Job Search, On-the-Job Training and/or Job Readiness)
  • Commerce Community Works Programs (Community Jobs, Career Jump, Community Works, Community WEX and Community Service) — To find out what local community based organizations provide these services, view list
  • Education and Training (including Vocational Education, Training, IBEST, HWHD, CJST, Basic Skills, GED preparation, ESL, and/or family literacy)
  • Limited English Proficiency (LEP) Pathway Services

For a list of some work readiness activities, link here. WorkFirst families may also qualify for support services to help with transportation, work clothing or uniform costs.

What support services are available to help parents looking for work?

WorkFirst parents looking for work can get help paying for child care cost through the Working Connections Child Care program. In addition, support to pay for transportation, work clothing and uniform costs, and other approved services like food assistance, medical, and/or emergency assistance is available.

What services and supports are available to once parent(s) go to work?

  • Career Services Program; including help keeping a job, finding a better job and cash benefits for up to six months of counseling on how to keep a job or find a better job.
  • Transitional support services.
  • Continued help with the costs of child care through Working Connections Child Care.
  • Possible Child Support payments.
  • Free tuition assistance at a community or technical college if working 20 or more hours per week.

General Resources for WorkFirst and Low-Income Families