As unemployment continues to rise in the face of a troubled local and national economy, United Way of Snohomish County has partnered with local and state agencies to develop a helpful new Web site, HelpForHardTimes.org.
Carl Zapora, president and chief executive of United Way of Snohomish County, said ongoing economic challenges are expected to persist into next year, and that an improvement in the housing market will be needed before conditions can improve on a larger scale.
In September, 19,650 people in Snohomish County were unemployed, representing a 5.2 percent unemployment rate, up from 5 percent in August.
The Internet site was designed to provide links to crutial information regarding a wide range of unemployment needs. This includes unemployment benefits, employment programs and job training, worker retraining, credit counseling, rent assistance, utility assistance, food assistance, emergency shelter assistance, medical and dental assistance programs, mental health/counseling/support groups, veteran’s assistance, child care assistance, and family caregiver assistance.
Boeing and other companies and agencies have contributed $13,000 to get the program off the ground, said United Way Spokeswoman Deborah Squires.
Groups working with United Way on its new online resource include: Cascadia Community College, A Center for Career Alternatives, Edmonds Community College, Washington State Employment Security Department, Everett Community College, North Sound 2-1-1, and Providence Health &Services.
Other agencies participating in the Web site’s development include The Salvation Army, Snohomish County Human Services Department, Volunteers of America Western Washington, WorkSource Snohomish County, The Snohomish County Economic Development Council, and the Washington State Department of Social and Health Services.
A launching ceremony attended by about 60 area residents was held at Everett Station Nov. 12.
People shouldn’t feel embarrassed about asking for help, the site points out, because the public programs offering assistance are organized at least in part by tax dollars and community volunteers who want to help those in need.
One of the worst things people do that unnecessarily worsens their financial problems is to ignore agency inquiries or government creditor requests. People shouldn’t hesistate to contact the person or agency who sent the letter if they don’t fully understand the contents of the bill or notice received.
People should be sure to speak with family members about their problems and work together to find steps each person can take to help manage them. Sharing the burden can prevent families from feeling helpless, and it can bring families together and help them grow stronger, United Way’s new site states.
Once people have explored their unemployment and WorkSource options and benefits, United Way urges them to stay active.
“If you’re temporarily out of work, keep yourself occupied,” a message on the site’s front page advises. “This is a good time to do all the things you’ve been putting off: fix the faucets, give your car a tune-up, clean out the garage, visit friends and relatives or take a community class. Check your local newspaper for a list of activities, many of which are free. You can also check with your local recreation department, city or county website, library, community center or college.”
Volunteering is a rewarding way to use this time, United Way’s new site suggests, even if it’s for a short period. To learn more about volunteering, visit United Way’s volunteer center at www.volunteer-center.org or call 425-374-5534.
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