My notes

How getting help usually works

Housing

Most housing help in Island County starts with one phone call to the Island County Housing Support Center on 360-678-8284. This is called Coordinated Entry. A Housing Navigator listens, checks what you qualify for and refers you on. If you have an eviction or pay or vacate notice, keep it and bring it. It is the paper most rent programs ask to see.

Food

Most food banks and community meals on Whidbey ask for no paperwork at all. For Basic Food, which is SNAP in Washington, three rules help older adults: medical costs you pay yourself over $35 a month can be counted, households where everyone is 60 or over or disabled with no earnings can be approved for 36 months at a time, and Washington does not count savings for most people who apply.

Rides

Almost every ride service needs notice, often two or three days. Book the ride when you book the appointment. If you have Apple Health, rides to covered appointments are free. For a ferry trip to a medical appointment, ask your doctor for a medical preferential loading note.

What to ask when you call

• Am I in the right place, and if not, who should I call?
• What papers should I bring, and do you need copies?
• Is there a waiting list, and how do I stay on it?
• Can someone else call, collect or apply for me?
• Is there a cost, and can it be waived?
• Who can I call back, and on what number?

Next steps

1. Pick the one most urgent thing on your list and call that place first.
2. Write down who you spoke to, the date and what they said in My notes.
3. Book any rides at the same time as the appointment.
4. Put renewal dates and waitlist check dates on your calendar.
5. If any of this feels like a lot, ask a trusted friend, neighbor or community organization to sit with you while you call. You can also complete this guide at your local library and print it there.