Washington State Department of Social and Health Services

We're #hiring a new Occupational Therapist in Shoreline, Washington. Apply today or share this post with your network.

Pants, Parties, and Progress: Breaking Old Rules Did you know? Women were prohibited from participating in nightlife and wearing pants in public until the 1920s! During the Victorian Era, social norms kept women at home in the evenings, as being out alone could tarnish their reputation. And as for pants? It wasn’t until 1923 that the U.S. Attorney General declared it acceptable for women to wear them—though many regions clung to restrictive dress codes for years. The women’s rights movement of the early 20th century, including suffragists, helped break these barriers. Practicality also played a role, as women donned pants during World War I while stepping into traditionally male roles. While DSHS doesn’t have programs connected to these historic changes, we think they’re a fascinating part of Women’s History Month. Let’s celebrate how far we’ve come!

The Governor’s Opportunity for Supportive Housing GOSH program is changing lives by helping individuals transition from state hospitals to independent living. With housing search assistance and ongoing tenancy support, GOSH is empowering people like Mark to find a home and build a new chapter. Learn more at https://lnkd.in/gftGkvMW

Protecting Vulnerable Adults: A Job Done with Dedication At DSHS, our Adult Protective Services team is committed to safeguarding the well-being of vulnerable adults. From investigating reports of abuse, neglect, and exploitation to collaborating with local and state agencies, our staff ensures that Washingtonians in need can live free from harm. Check out our Medium blog for 3 recent success stories that highlight the incredible impact of our team’s efforts. https://lnkd.in/giDyzGt9

This #SocialWorkerMonth, we recognize and celebrate the vital contributions of social workers and the lasting, positive impact they have on our communities. Our Economic Services Administration has roughly 400 social workers who help provide support, care and resources, in person and virtually, by helping to: ~ Collect medical documents, determine eligibility and provide case management and support for the Aged, Blind or Disabled and Housing and Essential Needs referral programs. ~Get Ongoing Additional Requirements for people when they have needs beyond essential food, clothing and shelter to keep living independently. ~Navigate the Supplemental Security Income application and appeals processes with the Social Security Administration, collaborating to streamline and coordinate efforts. Thank you, social workers, for this important work and for connecting people with resources in the community, too. Learn more about these vital programs: Aged, Blind or Disabled Cash Program https://lnkd.in/g7qQx8Kn Housing and Essential Needs Referral Program https://lnkd.in/gve8y4kv Ongoing Additional Requirements https://lnkd.in/gBEbHYh6 #SocialWorkers #ESA #SupportCareResources

March 25 is #equalpayday Did You Know? Women faced discrimination in employment until the Equal Pay Act of 1963. ? Women faced discrimination in hiring, wages and promotions. The Equal Pay Act of 1963 aimed to reduce wage disparities, though the wage gap persists today. Did you know? ? Women make up 55% of DSHS’ workforce and 51% of our customers. Learn more about DSHS as an employer of choice in Washington state and see if we have a good career fit for you by visiting https://lnkd.in/gQnG9Xf4. To learn more about the Equal Pay Act, visit the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission at www.eeoc.gov #womenhistorymonth?? #women #didyouknowfacts #dshs

Recreational therapy is a powerful tool that goes beyond just having fun. At DSHS, our dedicated recreational therapists help youth and adults build vital life skills, improve emotional well-being, and foster social connections through engaging activities. From camping trips to adaptive sports and creative arts, these passionate professionals create pathways for healing and personal growth.? #BHA #DSHS #jobopportunities #recreationaltherapy

Celebrating Women’s History Month: Breaking Barriers in Education Did you know that women didn’t have full access to higher education until 1972? Before the landmark Title IX law, many colleges denied admission to women or limited them to specific disciplines deemed "acceptable," like teaching or nursing. Title IX changed the game by prohibiting sex-based discrimination in federally funded education programs, opening doors to countless opportunities for women across diverse fields. Today, those doors continue to open wider. If you receive benefits through DSHS, you might qualify for the Washington College Grant, which can help pay for college or technical school. Start your journey today: https://wsac.wa.gov/wcg Let’s celebrate the progress made and the women who inspire us to continue breaking barriers! #womenhistorymonth #women #didyouknowfacts #DSHS

Help improve our communications with parents and caregivers new to child support. Did your child support case open in the past 18 months? We want to ensure you’re getting the information you need when you need it. Help us improve by taking a short survey to share your thoughts. The survey closes on April 4 and is available in English, Spanish, Russian, Ukrainian, Vietnamese, and Tagalog. Paper copies are also available at all DCS field offices across the state. Click https://lnkd.in/ggsUscJd to take the survey. #ChildSupport #ParentSupport #WeValueYourFeedback

Need help navigating services for people with intellectual or developmental disabilities? Our new animated videos break it down for you. Learn about available resources, how to access support, and more in just a few minutes. Watch now: YouTube https://lnkd.in/gsxKX9JX #DisabilitySupport #AccessibleServices