Pierce County and OnePierce award 21 behavioral health recipients with $1.5 M in CARES Act Funding

Workshop lays out basics of Social Security Disability

When someone experiences a disabling injury or illness, it can trigger a range of unsettling emotions and fears, not only for the person with the disability, but for their family members and friends, too. It may be comforting to know that when a long-term...

Workshop summarizes Medicare changes for COVID-19

Since the pandemic began, healthcare systems around the world have been challenged in unimaginable ways. Here at home, the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) have responded on a seemingly daily basis with new or revised guidance to address e...

CARES funding awards for foreclosure prevention and mortgage assistance announced

Pierce County Human Services is announcing the round 1 funding decision from federal CARES Act dollars for mortgage assistance and foreclosure prevention counseling. A total of $2.2 million will be used to target homeowners at risk of foreclosure who have...

Senior center funding available during COVID-19

An estimated $660,000 of Federal CARES Act funding is available for senior centers in Pierce County who were open prior to COVID-19. The purpose of this funding is to assist senior centers with covering basic expenses required to sustain during COVID-rela...

CARES funding available for domestic violence service providers

Pierce County Human Services is announcing a CARES Act funding opportunity for organizations interested in assisting domestic and family violence victims in response to COVID-19. A total of $1 million has been allocated to help residents who are fleeing, ...

Child care vouchers available for parents impacted by COVID-19

Pierce County allocated $2 million to child care that will be invested in two programs - a voucher system for families and relief grants for providers.

A Voucher System for Families:

$1.5 million will go towards vouchers for Pierce County families to access...

Round 2 Award Recipients of CARES Funding for Homelessness Announced

Pierce County Human Services is announcing the funding decision from round 2 from federal CARES Act dollars. These expenditures are part of the community response and resilience plan to prevent people from losing their current housing, keep people in shel...

Veterans rental and mortgage assistance now available

Pierce County Veterans Assistance Programs has received $400,000 to support veterans impacted by COVID-19. This funding comes from the federal CARES Act and will broadly expand services for Veterans and their families in our communities.

Features of the Ve...

Funding opportunity available for organizations to support homeowners

Pierce County Human Services is announcing a funding opportunity for non-profit organizations interested in providing services to homeowners in response to the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. A total of $2.2 million will be used to target homeowners who ...

CARES Act Funding Homeless Programs Award Recipients Announced

Pierce County Human Services is announcing the funding decision for round one from federal CARES Act dollars. These expenditures are part of the community response and resilience plan to prevent people from losing their current housing, keep people in she...

Rental Assistance is available for those impacted by COVID-19

Rental Assistance is available for Pierce County residents who have been impacted by the COVID-19 emergency. Low-income households are eligible, as well as anyone who lost work hours or employment due to quarantine and isolation measures.

Applicants must l...

Free hygiene services available at Sprinker

Pierce County Human Services has been working with local partners to increase hygiene and sanitation services for people experiencing homelessness.

As of May 20, 2020, Sprinker Recreation Center is open Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m ...

Senior Farmers Market Voucher program opens!

The Senior Farmers Market Nutrition Program provides low-income seniors with vouchers to purchase produce from participating farmers markets and roadside stands. It is funded by the U.S. Department of Agriculture and the State of Washington, but the progr...

Second round of emergency COVID-19 funding to address homelessness announced

As our Homeless Programs team continues to work closely with local, state, and national health officials, we want to update the community on efforts to support vulnerable residents. After the Washington State Department of Commerce awarded Pierce County $...

Senior Nutrition and Food Resources

In response to COVID-19, Aging and Disability Resources has expanded our nutrition programs. If you’re a Pierce County resident over the age of 60 and need help accessing food due to limited mobility, illness or COVID-19 safety concerns, we have...

Round 2 is open for Emergency COVID-19 funding to address homelessness

After the Washington State Department of Commerce awarded Pierce County $1.6M in emergency funds to address public health needs of people experiencing homelessness, we collaborated with the Tacoma-Pierce County Health Department and City of Tacoma to deve...

Emergency COVID-19 funding awards to address homelessness announced

As our Homeless Programs team continues to work closely with local, state, and national health officials, we want to update the community on efforts to support vulnerable residents. After the Washington State Department of Commerce awarded Pierce County $...

Minor Home Repair still available for health and safety repairs

Despite the challenging times, the Human Services Minor Home Repair Program continues to solve urgent housing problems for Pierce County residents. From broken furnaces to leaking pipes, employees Lesa Mancini-Williamson and Jennifer Wamboldt have seen &a...

Early Childhood Education and distance learning

On March 16, 2020, Pierce County Human Services Early Childhood Education and Assistance Programs (ECEAP) made the difficult decision to close our seven classrooms across the county in six school districts. Below are updates about how our operations have ...

Homeless Response Update from Human Services

The Pierce County Human Services Homeless Programs team has been working closely with local, state, and national health officials to support some of our most vulnerable residents. As we continue our efforts, we want to keep the community informed of how w...

Pierce County Donations Connector

Pierce County, along with the rest of the state, country and world, are facing an unprecedented challenge with communities and economies everywhere affected by the growing COVID-19 pandemic. We, along with our partners at the Tacoma-Pierce County Health D...

Aging & Disability Resource call center will remain open

Pierce County Human Services Aging and Disability Resource Division is offering alternative service options for older adults and people with disabilities. All face-to-face contacts are suspended across case management programs, but we are still caring for...

Veterans services expanded for COVID-19

Calling all Veterans! Are you at risk of eviction or late on bills? Our Veterans Assistance Program has temporarily expanded service to help those affected by COVID-19. 

Please call 253-798-7449 to see what emergency assistance may be available to...

Homeless Response from Pierce County

The Pierce County Human Services Homeless Programs team is working closely with local, state, and national health officials to slow the spread of the coronavirus. We are dedicated to continuing our collaboration and coordination efforts closely to support...

Pierce County Human Services is temporarily suspending walk-in services.

Out of an abundance of caution, Pierce County Human Services is temporarily suspending walk-in services. As of this afternoon, Human Services is offering alternative service options in response to the growing community concerns.

All appointments for both s...

Powerful Tools for Caregivers benefit everyone

According to statistics, someone turning 65 today has a 70% chance of needing long-term care. While this may cause some people to dread over the potentially devastating costs of a care facility, it may be comforting to know that 75% of all long-term care ...

Workshop examines pros and cons of reverse mortgages

With a strong housing market over the past several years, home prices have risen dramatically. As a result, many older adults have significant equity in their homes. Medical costs and long-term care costs have also risen dramatically, approximately 6% and...

Funny film explores outsourcing retirement

Television shows and movies make traveling in retirement look easy. Pick up a brochure, look at a map, pack your bags and discover a new country while living the retirement of your dreams. But that’s Hollywood, not reality.

Pierce County Aging an...

“Five Wishes” preserves dignity and respect in care planning

Thinking ahead is always important. Whether you’re hosting a party, making a kit for a natural disaster, or grocery shopping, planning is essential to feeling thoroughly prepared. Even though we hope for the best, it makes sense to plan for the ...

Tips for caregiving on the Alzheimer’s journey

Almost 6 million Americans are living with Alzheimer’s today. Researchers worldwide are scrambling to find a cure for Alzheimer’s and other dementias because in 30 years, that number is expected to rise to 14 million.Pierce County Agin...

Get the most out of your doctor visit

In the fast-paced world we live in, it can be difficult to feel heard at healthcare appointments. These appointments can move quickly, so having a second set of eyes and ears can be crucial to good follow-through. When it comes to your health, it’s import...

Volunteers, donations needed for the upcoming Homeless Point-In-Time Count

Every day in Pierce County, hundreds of people sleep in cars, shelters, or on the street. They are someone’s mom, dad, child, or friend. Do you ever wonder how they lost everything and became homeless? Or how many people in your community are in...

Images of Aging film embraces diversity and acceptance

Life can be cruel. Life can be rewarding. These two realities collide in the next screening of Images of Aging, a free film series raising awareness for the Family Caregiver Support Program.

Pierce County Aging and Disability Resources continues this film ...

Images of Aging explores personal prejudices and social changes

For an older adult, the decision to stop driving is never an easy one. Driving is the hallmark of personal independence and a symbol of individual freedom. In many cases, there are health issues involved that make driving dangerous, so the choice to stop ...

Film focuses on early onset dementia

When you think of Alzheimer’s or dementia, you probably think of an older adult. Contrary to popular belief, early onset Alzheimer’s affects people younger than age 65. They have families, careers or may even be caregivers to someone e...

Resource expo connects residents with local long-term care options

Knowing your options is always a good idea but knowing them before a crisis is even more important. Making the Link 2019 is Pierce County’s annual showcase of care providers and services for older adults and individuals with disabilities. The ev...

Learn what’s on the horizon for Social Security in 2020

Since 1935, Social Security has been the cornerstone of retirement plans for most Americans. The program continues to evolve, responding to the challenges of each generation. For individuals preparing to start their Social Security benefits, current and f...

Film explores challenges of aging in place

Over 75% of Americans aged 50 and older would prefer to stay at home as they age. When aging in place, the underlying goal is to live in the residence of their choice for as long as they can. But there is much more to staying safe at home than meets the e...

LGBTQIA+ conference empowers seniors to age out loud

In 2017, Tacoma Older LGBT conducted a community survey and estimated that 4,520 lesbian, gay or bisexual adults over the age of 60 and 387 transgender adults call Pierce County home. Since then, Pierce County Aging and Disability Resources (ADR) has host...

Fall prevention event highlights safety concerns for older adults

The staggering numbers show how serious falls are for older adults. The National Council on Aging reports that one in four Americans age 65 and over fall each year. In America, every 11 seconds an older adult is treated in the emergency room for a fall. E...

Alzheimer’s conference focuses on healthy meals and alternatives

Today, one in three seniors dies with Alzheimer’s or another dementia. Oftentimes, regular or nutritious meals may become a challenge for people with dementia. As cognitive function declines, one may become overwhelmed with too many food choices, forget t...

Free Alzheimer’s conference focuses on nutritional health and creative alternatives

Pierce County Aging & Disability Resources, in collaboration with the Health Care Providers Council of Pierce County, will host “Food for Thought: Nutrition and Dementia”, this year’s Alzheimer’s Caregiver Conference theme. 

The event is set f...

Tips for caring for people with Alzheimer’s

Almost 6 million Americans are living with Alzheimer’s today. Researchers worldwide are scrambling to find a cure as they estimate that number to rise to 14 million before the year 2050.

Pierce County Aging and Disability Resources (ADR) is hosting a new s...

Images of Aging looks at not aging

Many products today are advertised to help older adults keep their youthful look. The global anti-aging market generates billions of dollars every year, with the United States accounting for over one-third. In a time like this, one must wonder, what would...

Images of Aging featured in new film series

Films can teach us so much about ourselves and those around us. Many films focus on the human condition, the characteristics, key events, and situations which compose the essentials of human existence, including aging and mortality. 

Pierce County...

Community input sought for aging and disability services

The Pierce County Human Services Aging & Disability Resources (ADR) division is initiating a survey to gather community input for the creation of the 2020-2023 Area Plan. As the designated Area Agency on Aging for Pierce County, ADR must develop and o...

Caregiver film series challenges intellectual disability label

Intellectual disabilities know no boundaries. They touch the lives of people from all racial, ethnic, social, and economic backgrounds. Many people with an intellectual disability lead full, rewarding, and contributing lives. Many find themselves pushed t...

Powerful tools essential for caregivers

The need for care isn’t just for older people. The unfortunate reality is that people of any age may require long-term care, defined as care lasting at least 12 months. When accidents happen, a short hospital stay may be the immediate aftermath, but what ...

Caring at home is the key

About eighty percent of us will need some form of long-term care in our lifetime. The reality is that most of that care will be provided at home, not a health care facility. Oftentimes the care provided is not medical, but rather assistance with basic tas...

Film explores bond between caregiver and woman living with ALS

Caregivers come from all kinds of backgrounds. People receiving care have diverse needs. The working relationship between them takes time to mature as the people involved get to know each other. In many cases, when developing a healthy rapport, caregiver ...

Pierce County Point-in-Time Count results released

The 2019 Pierce County PIT (Point-in-Time) Count was conducted on January 25, 2019 via a mobile application.  

A total of 1,486 people experiencing homelessness were identified during the count, a decrease of 9% compared with the 2018 PIT count. V...

Tools for caregiving on the Alzheimer’s journey

With estimates of roughly 108,000 people in Washington state living with Alzheimer’s disease, it’s no surprise that more and more families are confronting the reality of caring for a loved one living with some form of dementia. Alzheim...

Caregiving film explores difficult choices for ill family members

Families always want the best for their loved ones. When it comes to caregiving, most decisions are made out of love, concern and the desire to respect the wishes of the partner. Occasionally, that sense of commitment and devotion can cloud judgment on wh...

Caregiving film dives into dysfunctional family dynamics

Caring for a loved one can be difficult, especially for families with strained relationships. Complications may arise when adult children need to care for abusive, neglectful or estranged relatives. It may be difficult for families to navigate through iss...

Aging into the Future: Pierce County 2020-2030

Over the next 10 years, Pierce County will look substantially different than it does today – especially for older adults and individuals with disabilities. By the year 2030, a large percentage of county residents will be over the age of 60 and many of the...

Caring at home is key to healthcare

About eighty percent of us will need some form of long term care in our lifetimes. Most of that care, including assistance with basic personal tasks, will be provided in the home, not in an expensive health care facility. While many families pay for care ...

Volunteers, donations needed for the Point-In-Time Count

Every day in Pierce County, hundreds of people sleep in cars, shelters, or on the streets. They are someone’s mom, dad, child, or friend. Do you ever wonder how they lost everything and became homeless? Or how many more people are in a similar situation? ...

Caregiver film focuses on family relationships

Caregiving can be complicated. It is not just a two-way street between care givers and care receivers. Caregiving creates a web of relationships between spouses, children, parents, other relatives, friends and neighbors. Often those relationships move to ...

Social Security retirement

Social Security is the cornerstone of retirement plans for most Americans. The program continues to evolve and for individuals preparing to start their Social Security benefits, changes may impact their retirement plans. With some knowledge and a few simp...

Hope and healing come to the Orting Valley

More than 3 million young Americans between the ages of 12 and 25 suffer from drug addiction. 

Drug addiction is an issue that affects everyone, even here at home. In Pierce County, from 2012 to 2017, the number of opioid-related deaths rose to 42...

Join the conversation at SAGE Table Tacoma

There are an estimated 3 million Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender (LGBT) adults over the age of 50 living in the United States today. The Age Wave will increase that to nearly 7 million by 2030. Despite increasing visibility and recognition, loneliness...

Celebrating caregivers through candid conversations

Most long-term care is provided in-home by loved ones such as spouses, adult children, relatives and friends. These informal caregivers are crucial for the safety and well-being of their beloved. Despite the demanding and difficult tasks, very few caregiv...

Resources, services, providers highlight Making the Link 2018

Pierce County’s “Making the Link” is an annual showcase of care providers for older adults and individuals with disabilities. There will be over 70 exhibitors featuring in-home care, assisted and skilled nursing facilities, elder law, equipment providers,...

Mistakes to avoid when looking for a care facility

Many families feel like they have been thrown into the fire when the need to find a care facility for themselves or a loved one. There are scores of long term care facilities throughout Pierce County – adult family homes, assisted living, skilled nursing,...

Relationships change when caregiving needs begin

Friendships can last a lifetime. When childhood friendships continue into adulthood, they can evolve into something more, such as a tremendous support system offering encouragement, and even growing into caregiving. Not all caregivers are family. Many car...

Falls prevention event highlights awareness, action

Falls are the scourge of aging. They can result in minor sprains and bruises or cause major bone breaks. They can even result in hospitalization or death. As the number of seniors continues to grow, the number of fall-related injuries continues to increas...

Preventable falls among seniors reach epidemic proportions

One small accident, like tripping on a rug or slipping on a wet floor, can change your life. For older adults, a break can be the start of more serious problems, such as a hip fracture, head injury, or even death. 

Since 2003, the number of deaths...

Caregivers can identify with Happy Tears

Caregivers give it their all – blood, sweat and tears. What started out as helping around the house can easily become a full-time job. Caring can bring up a mix of emotions, especially if you’re providing around the clock care. One day...

Caregiver film series focuses on relationship stress

It may start with driving your loved one to get groceries or go to the doctor. Later, you may find yourself taking time off work, preparing meals, or handling the bills. Regardless of where you are at on your caregiving journey, there are many responsibil...

Free workshop lays out solutions for Social Security

It’s no secret that tax revenue for Social Security is outpaced by payments made to beneficiaries. In less than 20 years, Social Security will only be able to pay out about 75% of promised benefits. What can be done to keep the program healthy f...Read on...

Guidance for Social Security in 2017

Social Security is the cornerstone of retirement plans for most Americans. The program continues to evolve and will do so, especially in light of projections about the solvency of Social Security. For individuals preparing to start their Social Security b...Read on...

Learn how to travel with Alzheimer’s or dementia

Getting out and seeing the world is one of those pleasures that almost everyone enjoys. Whether it’s heading off to delightful far off places or taking in vistas nearby, travel can lift the heart and stimulate the mind. But with a diagnosis of A...Read on...

Event provides link for anyone serving older adults or individuals with disabilities

Most older adults and people with disabilities hope to remain safe, independent, and active, whether at home or in a care facility. Knowing about available resources in the community and how to access them is one of the best things that people can do for ...Read on...

Workshop offers keys to success with vision loss

Vision loss happens more often that we may care to admit. Whether by disease, age, accident or trauma, people can have their vision impacted. But it doesn’t have to mean the loss of independence or quality of life. By tapping into community supports and r...Read on...

Social Security Disability focus on March 23

Odds are you won’t need it. Odds are if you do need it, Social Security Disability is a lifesaver. Nearly one out of every six working-age Americans – 29.5 million people – has a disability, making them much more likely to experience economic hardship th...Read on...

Workshop explains Social Security retirement changes in 2016

Social Security continues to be a key part of how Americans ensure their financial security after they retire. Congress made some substantial changes to the program that take effect in 2016. For people preparing to start their Social Security benefits, th...Read on...

Learn skills to deal with initial diagnosis of Alzheimer’s

Pierce County Community Connections Aging and Disability Resources is hosting a repeat series of the popular “Oh My Gosh – Now What?” The 6-part series of discussions for families and individuals focuses on the initial journey through Alzheimer’s and oth...Read on...

Workshop brings hoarding out from the shadows

Television has made hoarding into prime time entertainment. But hoarding is serious business that can last a lifetime – a mental health disorder that may touch over 1 million people in the US. Often families are torn apart, friends are alienated and mar...Read on...

Community Connections director leaving position at Pierce County

After nearly five years with Pierce County Community Connections, Helen Howell’s last day as director of that department will be Tuesday, Nov. 3.

Howell will be transitioning to her new role as Executive Director of Building Changes, an organization th...Read on...

Plan ahead to maximize your Social Security benefits

For people planning on receiving Social Security now or in the future, knowing how to make the benefits is critical. A few simple tips can save beneficiaries thousands of dollars. And for those currently receiving Social Security benefits, there may be ...Read on...

Task force to dedicate DUI emphasis patrol to young victim

Tacoma Pierce County DUI and Traffic Safety Task Force will dedicate a DUI emphasis patrol this weekend in honor of Quinnton Dimmitt. The 17-year-old Franklin Pierce High School student was killed by an impaired driver April 25, 2014, as he drove to buy a...Read on...

Family caregivers have resources to ease their work

Caregiving is the “new normal” in American families. People who need help – whether because of age, accident, debilitating disease, chronic health conditions or simple frailty – much prefer to remain in the familiar (and affordable) surroundings of home r...Read on...

Community input sought for Aging & Disability priorities

Pierce County Community Connections Aging & Disability Resources (ADR) is initiating a process to gather community input for the creation of the 2016-2019 Area Plan. The Area Plan establishes funding priorities and the array of services that will be p...Read on...

Volunteers needed for Pierce County’s annual homeless survey

The Pierce County Department of Community Connections and Tacoma-Pierce County Coalition to End Homelessness seek volunteers to gather census data of the homeless population and those on the verge of becoming homeless in Pierce County.

The annual surv...Read on...

Retirement for “average folks” will look different

If you look at advertising, it’s all about expanding your portfolio and enjoying the good life. While that may be true for some, most Americans will experience something quite different.

“Retirement for ‘Average’ Folks” explores what most people wil...Read on...

Free Uber ride home avoids a DUI in Tacoma on Black Friday

Avoid a DUI in Tacoma this Black Friday with the simple tap of an app.

To kick-off its holiday Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over campaign, the Tacoma Pierce County DUI and Traffic Safety Task Force is partnering with Uber, the app that connects riders an...Read on...

Learn about resources for extended care of a loved one

Whether the need happens suddenly or over a period of years, when the necessity for extended health care happens, knowing about community resources is a necessity. The worst case scenario is to have to make decisions about long term care in a crisis witho...Read on...

Dementia: Setting the Record Straight

Dementia can be a frightening diagnosis, both for the individual and for their family. People often experience a range of emotions from anger and relief to denial and depression. And that is only the beginning. As short-term memory begins to fade, people ...Read on...

Medicare changes place responsibilities on beneficiaries

Medicare is no longer a one-size-fits-all health insurance program. Medicare now offers beneficiaries two basic options – Original Medicare and Medicare Advantage – and dozens of additional choices within each path. Knowing the differences and how to choo...Read on...

Advance planning for funerals eases burdens

Decisions made in haste or under pressure are most often not the best decisions. This is particularly true at the passing of a loved one. Given these circumstances it’s not unusual for families to purchase services or overlook things that would not have b...Read on...

Your feet may be telling you something

We walk all over them but most of the time there’s no complaint – until it’s too late. The average woman will own 450 pairs of shoes in a lifetime. Men will own about half that many. Yet few people have their feet measured professionally, trusting only th...Read on...

Workshop offers tips for scam prevention

Seniors are the target of choice for scammers and other crooks. Financial scams often go unreported or can be difficult to prosecute, so they’re considered a “low-risk” crime. However, they're devastating to many older adults and can leave them in a very...Read on...

Tips for when driving is no longer an option

One of the most difficult challenges families face is the time when an older adult should no longer get behind the wheel of a car. The automobile is often seen as the last symbol of a person’s independence and removing that can be devastating.

“Giving ...Read on...

Police intervene in weekend underage drinking parties on South Hill and in Graham

Pierce County’s Party Intervention Patrol citied 14 underage drinkers, ages 17-20, after a tip led the multi-agency team to a bonfire deep in the woods near the La Paloma Firs neighborhood of Graham.

Beginning at 11 PM on June 14, officers hiked into t...Read on...

Learn about resources for extended care of a loved one

Whether the need happens suddenly or over a period of years, when the necessity for extended health care happens, knowing about community resources is a necessity. The worst case scenario is to have to make decisions about long term care in a crisis.

“...Read on...

Films focus on Alzheimer’s caregiving

Families dealing with the prospect of caring for a loved one with Alzheimer’s or another dementia face an uncertain future. There is no cure for Alzheimer’s. Most families work diligently to provide for the needs of their loved one in their own home as lo...Read on...

Social Security benefits help people with a ticket to work

Individuals with disabilities encounter numerous barriers to employment. Those frustrating walls hinder gainful employment and reduce self-sufficiency. But Social Security provides many effective work incentives that can be combined with other state resou...Read on...

Long term care insurance: Get the impartial facts

Only about 10% of adults have long term care insurance. Given that Medicare does not cover long term care, how smart is that?

Long term care can be expensive. Long term care insurance is expensive. Pierce County Aging & Disability Resources wil...Read on...

Community Connections Citizens Advisory Board seeks members

The Pierce County Department of Community Connections is seeking citizen members to serve on an advisory board that makes funding recommendations for community development grants.

Members of the Pierce County Citizens’ Advisory Board help reduce the im...Read on...

Knowing how to make a Will saves problems later

The Pierce County Aging & Disability Resource Center has scheduled an additional “Writing Your Will” workshop for Tuesday, March 18 at 7 p.m.

The free event will be held at the Jim and Carolyn Milgard Family HOPE Center, 8502 Skansie Avenue in Gi...Read on...

Workshop explores successful family caregiving

The vast majority of health care provided in the United States – 89% of it – happens at home. Nearly one in three households is involved in family caregiving – either directly or indirectly. But for most caregivers, there is little training to meet the ch...Read on...

Community Connections Grant keeps Parkland kids smiling

Lindquist Dental Clinic for Children (LDCC) in Parkland is doing their part to make a positive impact in Pierce County for low-income children with unmet dental needs. Thanks to a grant from Pierce County Community Connections, as many as 4,000 additional...Read on...

Learn how to maximize Social Security benefits

As the economy changes and the needs of consumers change, knowing how to make the most of Social Security benefits is becoming more and more important. For people preparing to start their Social Security benefits, a few simple tips might save them thousan...Read on...

Homeless Coalition seeks volunteers

For those of us living in the northwest, the cold, damp winter seems endless by this time of the year. Imagine being one of the 670 homeless individuals who slept outside or in an emergency shelter in your neighborhood last night. To understand the challe...Read on...

Volunteers sought for youth violence prevention program

The Department of Community Connections seeks volunteers to serve on the Allocation Advisory Committee for Prevention Programs, an advisory body to Pierce County government on the use of tax dollars set aside for youth violence prevention programs.

Th...Read on...

Knowing how to make a Will saves problems later

There are some topics that people are reluctant to think about. While 60% of adults said they believe everyone should have a will, only 44% said they have one. The reality is that a Will is an essential document for any adult, regardless of age, to create...Read on...

Tow companies, volunteers and cops team up to keep holiday roads safe

Law enforcement officers who began removing impaired drivers from Pierce County roads Thanksgiving Day are urging potential drinking drivers to call taxis and line-up sober designated drivers again this weekend.

The Tacoma Pierce County DUI and Traffic...Read on...

Dangers of holiday scams and frauds highlighted

December always sees a spike in the number of scams, frauds and identity thefts by crooks taking advantage of the fast paced holiday season. Many of these crimes happen because shoppers are a little less attentive to their surroundings.

As technology...Read on...

How Community Connections helps a family coping with dementia

Every day is a good day for Raanah Aanstead. But three days each week, she is in the best place. “People make me smile,” she said. “They make me feel special.”

For a little over a year, Raanah has been coming to Cascade Park Active Day, an adult day he...Read on...

Help provided for individuals and families suffering addiction

Many individuals and families suffer silently under the shadow of addiction. When alcohol or prescription drugs take over a person’s life, those nearby are impacted too. It can happen in any family – rich or poor, large or small, employed or not. No one i...Read on...

DUI task force's taxi program kicks-off Sept. 28

Fun-seekers heading for 6th Avenue’s nightclubs this Saturday night in Tacoma will have help scoring a taxi ride home if they’ve had too much to drink.

The rides - the first 25 of which will be free for groups sharing a ride within Tacoma - are sponsor...Read on...

Grandparenting has a new look in 2013

Grandparenting these days presents many new opportunities. But it also requires some approaches that were unheard of twenty years ago. The advent of technology and the experiences that youngsters have today create a whole new environment.

There are as ...Read on...

Workshop prepares businesses for the Affordable Care Act

The Affordable Care Act (ACA) is moving closer to full implementation. Washington State has chosen to establish a Health Benefit Exchange, a marketplace where individuals and businesses (with less than 50 employees) can shop for insurance plans.

Take t...Read on...

Film explores depths of what makes us who we are

The Alzheimer’s journey is just another story – until it hits home. When Ann Hedreen’s mother began the battle with Alzheimer’s, it was only natural for the daughter – a professional filmmaker – to pick up her camera and tell the story with a mix of scien...Read on...

Learn how to maximize Social Security benefits

As the economy changes and the needs of consumers change, knowing how to make the most of Social Security benefits is becoming more and more important. For people preparing to start their Social Security benefits, a few simple tips might save them thousan...Read on...

Get the facts about sun safety before summer arrives

Even the Stone Age people knew the sun brought life on Earth and that is one reason they used to worship it. But the sun can both heal and destroy. Sunlight can be the kiss of life or death. It depends on the way we use it.

Pierce County Aging & ...Read on...

Cops step-up Cinco de Mayo DUI and liquor enforcement

As communities throughout King, Snohomish and Pierce counties bring out their sombreros and Mariachi guitars in anticipation of the coming Cinco de Mayo weekend, law enforcement is making its own plans.

Beginning on Saturday, May 4, local, county and ...Read on...

Birthday party leads to 24 underage drinking arrests

A Party Intervention Patrol on April 6 coordinated by the Tacoma Pierce County DUI and Traffic Safety Task Force resulted in the arrest of 24 youth, ages 18-21, for minor in possession.

Included among the arrested youth was a female who was taken to j...Read on...

Forum provides opportunity for caregivers to brainstorm

People who care for an individual with Alzheimer’s or other dementias are faced with heavy responsibilities unlike other caregivers. Sometimes the work can become overwhelming, especially when new and difficult behaviors and patterns come to the surface. ...Read on...

Community Cafe's will help guide services in Pierce County

Pierce County Aging & Disability Resources (ADR) will host a series of three Community Cafés to help draft the 2014-2015 Area Plan Update. The Area Plan is used as a guide for planning and funding programs and services that can best serve older adults...Read on...

Universal Design Workshop shows how to stay at home

People buy homes to suit their practical needs – kids, hobbies, interests, neighborhoods and more. But those needs invariably change over time. In order to stay in a home and enjoy the benefits, careful thought has to be put into making the home livable f...Read on...

Free special needs transportation expands in rural Pierce County

Community Connections is expanding special needs transportation in rural Pierce County. The “Beyond the Borders Connector,” a four-month pilot project, provides eligible riders with a link to services in rural communities. The transportation program is ad...Read on...

Forum offers tips for businesses to combat cyber crime

Leaders in combating cyber crime and business identity theft will talk about trends and solutions for local companies at a forum on March 20 in Lakewood.

The forum, jointly sponsored by the Economic Development Departments of Pierce County and the City...Read on...

Going to – and leaving – the hospital takes planning

A stay in the hospital used to be a pretty simple thing. Patients went in when they were sick and left when they were better. Today, a hospital stay is much more complicated. Patients leave the hospital with ever more complicated conditions.

Hospital ...Read on...

"Drive sober or get pulled over" Super Bowl weekend

Be sure to plan a safe ride home this weekend. The Target Zero Teams in King, Pierce, and Snohomish counties will be out this Super Bowl weekend looking for impaired drivers.

“Football fans look forward to spending the day with family and friends watc...Read on...

Learn how to maximize Social Security benefits

The Pierce County Aging & Disability Resource Center will host an additional presentation of “Social Security After Retirement” on Thursday, Jan. 24 at the Pierce County Soundview Building, 3611 S. D Street in Tacoma, from 4:30 to 5:30 p.m.

The wo...Read on...

Learn the ins and outs of Medicaid

Health care costs continue to climb. Many people presume that in one way or another Medicare and/or Medicaid will pay for care, especially long term care.

Medicaid, a program financed jointly by the federal and state governments, provides medical care ...Read on...

Volunteers Needed to conduct Pierce County's annual homeless survey

The Department of Community Connections and Tacoma-Pierce County Coalition to End Homelessness seek volunteers to gather census data of the homeless population and those on the verge of becoming homeless in Pierce County. The annual survey – which is in i...Read on...

Workshop offers guidance for aging parents of children with disabilities

Parents of children with a life-long developmental disability, chronic illness or mental health condition often face a lifetime of challenges, successes, sorrows, and joys.

But what happens when aging parents develop their own medical and cognitive d...Read on...

Holiday revelers can get a free ride home instead of a DUI

The Tacoma Pierce County DUI and Traffic Safety Task Force, in partnership with the Pierce County Tower’s Association and Aloha Cab Company, is kicking off its holiday Home Safe Bar Program to keep would-be impaired drivers off the road.

Beginning this...Read on...

County seeks applications for community grants

Pierce County is soliciting applications for $800,000 in federal grants aimed at improving living conditions in lower income areas.

The grants will be offered to nonprofit, public and government agencies from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban De...Read on...

Workshop prepares families for difficult conversations

Monday Oct 29 2012 11:42 AM

The holidays bring families together. It's a chance to catch up and share news. But it's also a chance to check up on older relatives and other loved ones who may be at risk.

"Breaking the Ice" is an information...Read on...

DUI Patrol and Home Safe Bar Program hits Tacoma streets

Thursday Sep 27 2012 9:56 AM

Pierce County's Target Zero law enforcement team dedicated to reducing the number of people killed by impaired drivers is headed for Tacoma the weekend of Sept. 29.

The team has arrested more than 2,500 impaired drivers ...Read on...

Allocation Advisory Committee for Prevention Programs volunteers sought

Friday Sep 21 2012 10:29 AM

The Pierce County Department of Community Connections is seeking new members to serve on the Allocation Advisory Committee for Prevention Programs, an advisory body to Pierce County government on the use of tax dollars set a...Read on...

Pierce County breaks ground on Energy Star certified housing

With one ceremonial dig in an empty lot, County Executive Pat McCarthy kicked off construction of a new community in Pierce County – The Woods at Golden Given. Volunteers, contractors and community partners will now begin developing this $6.2 million, 30-...Read on...