Shelter options for unhoused during expected cold snap

County announces shelter options for unhoused during expected cold snap

In partnership with the Coalition to End Homelessness and the City of Tacoma, Pierce County is coordinating warm indoor places to shelter for those experiencing homelessness, including...

2021 Alzheimer’s Conference brings information and inspiration to caregivers

Nearly half of all caregivers who provide help to older adults do so for someone living with Alzheimer’s disease or another form of dementia. Right now, more than six million Americans suffer from Alzheimer’s, and that number is projec...

Community input sought for aging and disability services Area Plan Update

The Pierce County Human Services Aging and Disability Resources (ADR) division invites the community to attend a public meeting to comment on the draft 2022-2023 Area Plan Update, including the 2022 proposed budget.

The one-hour virtual public meeting will...

Alzheimer’s educational series provides guidance to caregivers

The numbers are shocking. Almost six million Americans are living with Alzheimer’s today and in 30 years, that number is expected to rise to 14 million. After a family member is diagnosed, they often become the most important individual in that ...

Community input sought for Community Action Programs

The Pierce County Human Services Community Action Programs (CAP) division is seeking input from community members to identify strengths and resources available to meet the needs of children, youth and families. Interested participants can take the survey ...

Community input sought for aging and disability services

The Pierce County Human Services Aging and Disability Resources (ADR) division is initiating a survey to gather community input for the two year update to  the 2020-2023 Area Plan. As the designated Area Agency on Aging for Pierce County, ADR mus...

Universal design workshop focuses on age-friendly homes

Sidewalk ramps at intersections, commonly called curb cuts, were designed to help wheelchairs navigate urban walkways. Once introduced, designers quickly realized their extensive value for parents pushing strollers, children riding bicycles and pedestrian...

Workshop discusses health care planning from a medical perspective

Attorneys and social service providers stress the importance of having legal documents in place. Despite our best efforts to prepare living wills, advance directives and powers of attorney, oftentimes in a health care setting these legal documents can fal...

Learn the basics of Medicaid

Many of us have heard of Medicaid and Medicare, but they can be easy to confuse. Join the Pierce County Aging and Disability Resource Center for an online primer explaining the difference between the two, including how to qualify and apply. 

“Maki...

Senior Farmers Market Nutrition Program opens May 3

Eligible seniors can apply online for the Senior Farmers Market Nutrition Program and receive vouchers to purchase produce from participating farmers markets and farm stores, beginning May 3. Over 2,000 vouchers are available, each valued at $40, and may ...

Pierce County Caregiver Conference goes virtual

Thousands of Pierce County residents take care of a friend or family member with a serious health condition. While being a caregiver can be a labor of love, it can also be very stressful. On top of normal stress, the isolation created by COVID-19 has resu...

Workshop explores issues of downsizing, organizing and simplifying

Nearly half of Americans consider their homes cluttered¬ with items they no longer use, and one in seven have a room in their home filled with unused items. While most could use extra space, 41 percent of Americans report they have not decluttered...

Series focuses on legal documents vital to residents of all ages

For better or worse, we live in a society that relies on documentation. When an emergency, crisis or unforeseen circumstance arise, regardless of age, having documentation in place can provide support and direction during difficult times.

“Dottin...

Rental and utility assistance available for Pierce County tenants behind on payments

Pierce County and the City of Tacoma have partnered to bring an eviction prevention program to thousands of residents impacted by COVID-19. Pierce County renters with overdue rent and/or utility bills can apply for financial assistance. Eligible utilities...

Workshop lays out basics of Social Security Disability

The CDC estimates that 1 in 4 Americans have a disability, but still, many people are unaware of this vital program. The importance of these benefits cannot be understated, as they often protect against poverty, homelessness, and bankruptcy.  

Pie...

Know the differences between natural aging and dementia

The number of Americans living with dementia or Alzheimer’s disease is growing — and growing fast.13.8 million people age 65 and older are projected to have Alzheimer’s by 2050. It is normal for memory to change with age, but...

Tools and techniques to avoid scams

Financial scams targeting seniors have become so prevalent that they are now considered ‘the crime of the 21^st century.’ If you’ve been the victim of a scam, you know how upsetting it can be. But often consumers may not even recognize the truly effective ...

Extra homeless shelter beds available

Due to the cold weather forecasted for the next week, extra overnight shelter capacity is available at multiple sites for people experiencing homelessness. Call 2-1-1 for on-demand services or visit a homeless service provider near you. 

See avail...

Get the most out of your doctor visit

Going to the doctor isn’t what it used to be. With innovative technology and advancements in medicine, it’s expected that we are more informed and engaged with our medical providers. It’s more important now than ever for pati...

Community Development and Homelessness: A Think Tank Recap

In the fall of 2020, the homeless programs team of Human Services held a series of 'community think tanks,' across the County. Residents were invited to provide input on recommendations for community development projects related to homel...

Advance planning for funerals eases burdens

Few people are comfortable talking about death, but making funeral arrangements ahead of time is beneficial in more ways than one. Decisions made in haste or under pressure are often not the best decisions, especially after the passing of a loved one. Pre...

Avoid costly mistakes with free retirement planning workshop

Everybody looks forward to retiring someday. With preparation and a little luck, most of us will have the opportunity to enjoy retirement, but simple mistakes can easily set you on the wrong track. Avoid that fate by taking care to avoid common financial ...

Expert panel focuses on extended care of a loved one

Long-term care is commonly associated with seniors, but younger adults are increasingly finding themselves in need of services following an accident, unexpected illness or chronic condition. Whether you’re a resident in a long-term care facility...

Workshop explores holiday conversations with aging relatives

Holidays provide the perfect opportunity for adult children to spend time with aging parents and relatives. While this year’s holiday season will look dramatically different because of virtual gatherings, the importance of time together cannot b...

New Mobile Resource Center brings vital services directly to those who need them

The launch of the Mobile Resource Center (MRC) is bringing critically needed support and services to residents across Pierce County.

Due to the pandemic, Pierce County Human Services is unable to conduct normal outreach activities. The solution is a well-e...

Community Services seeks resident input on community development

Have you ever wondered what Pierce County Human Services’ budget looks like? Where does all that money go and why don’t we have enough to end homelessness? Do you have ideas that you think will improve your community? If you have an id...

Workshop explores considerations for moving in aging parents

Today, over 40% of Americans buying a home are shopping with older relatives in mind.  There are many reasons why adult children may consider having their aging parents move in with them. Some prefer the advantages provided by intergenerational l...

Birth to 25 Advisory Board seeking new members

Pierce County Human Services seeks interested candidates to serve on the Birth to 25 Advisory Board (B-25 Board). The B-25 Board is a 19-member board tasked with proposing a long-range plan with policy, systems, and environmental change recommendations to...

Help for families navigating dementia and driving discussions

Many people drive for years avoiding accidents and traffic citations. It’s a skill that demands attention, concentration, physical coordination and quick decision making. When cognitive abilities begin to decline in a loved one with Alzheimer&am...

Social Security presentation offers strategies to save money, maximize benefits

For individuals preparing to start their Social Security benefits, it’s important to know how current and future changes may impact their retirement. Pierce County Aging and Disability Resources is offering a fast-paced presentation for resident...

CARES Act funds will help affordable housing operators maintain stability

Pierce County Human Services has $1.45 million in federal CARES Act dollars available to assist owners and operators of affordable housing projects experiencing financial loss due to the COVID-19 pandemic. County-wide there are over 10,000 units of deed-r...

New supports for caregivers at home

We rely on in-home caregivers to keep people safe, healthy and secure. Caregivers are critical partners in caring for those with chronic conditions and others in need of long-term support, so ensuring they are taken care of is vital to the wellbeing of ou...

Essential Express offers transportation solutions to Pierce County residents

Pierce County Human Services has received $60,000 in federal CARES Act dollars to offer transportation solutions for those who are unable to transport themselves or who cannot access their normal mode of transportation due to COVID-19. 

The Essent...

Federal CARES Act funds relief program for affordable housing operations

Pierce County Human Services has received $1.45 million in federal CARES Act dollars to help stabilize affordable housing projects. Grants are available for eligible owners and operators of deed-restricted affordable housing projects who have suffered a C...

Virtual workshops offer safety tips for older adults on Falls Prevention Awareness Day

Each year on a special day in fall, thousands of educators, caregivers, health professionals and older adults across the country focus their efforts on one goal: preventing falls. Pierce County Aging and Disability Resources (ADR) is partnering with the N...

$10.7 million awarded to Emergency Rental Assistance providers

Pierce County Human Services was awarded roughly $10.7 million for rental assistance from the Washington State Department of Commerce to support our rental assistance program. This funding will be used to pay past due rent and prevent future evictions for...

Final awards for mortgage assistance and foreclosure prevention announced

Pierce County Human Services is announcing the round 2 funding decision from federal CARES Act dollars for mortgage assistance and foreclosure prevention counseling.  A total of $2.2 million was allocated be used to target homeowners at risk of f...

Self-care vital in supporting people with Alzheimer’s

The numbers are shocking. Almost six million Americans are living with Alzheimer’s today. Experts estimate in 30 years that number will rise to 14 million. When a person is diagnosed with Alzheimer’s, they often become the most importa...

15 annual Alzheimer's Conference goes virtual

More than 5 million Americans are living with Alzheimer’s, but many more are living without knowing they have the disease. Symptoms of Alzheimer’s come on gradually, often without notice, contributing to the disease killing more people...

Over $500K awarded to senior centers from Federal CARES Act

A total of $556,450 of Federal CARES Act funding has been awarded to senior centers in Pierce County to assist with covering basic expenses required to sustain during COVID-related closures. Senior Centers are a vital resource for older adults to access a...

CARES Act funding awarded to Domestic and Family Violence service providers

Pierce County has awarded $400K of the CARES Act funding to eight agencies providing domestic and family violence prevention services. This funding will support domestic violence victims impacted by the pandemic and assist local domestic violence services...

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...

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 ...

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...

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...

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 ...

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...

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...

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 ...

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...

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...