Washington Childcare Assistance for Single Mothers (2025): A No‑BS, Step‑by‑Step Guide

Last updated: September 2025

Use this guide to get childcare help fast in Washington State. Every link goes to an official or well‑established source. Dollar amounts and phone numbers are bolded for quick scanning.

Quick Help (start here)

• Call the DCYF Child Care Contact Center to apply for Washington’s main subsidy (Working Connections Child Care). Phone hours Mon–Fri. Apply by phone or online: 844‑626‑8687; or apply at Washington Connection (state portal). (dcyf.wa.gov)
• Not sure which program fits, or need help finding an open spot? Call the Child Care Aware of Washington Family Center: 800‑446‑1114 (free referrals and help with subsidy). Or search providers using Child Care Check (state database). (childcareawarewa.org, dcyf.wa.gov)
• If you’re homeless or fleeing violence, tell DCYF when you apply. Families experiencing homelessness can be approved for up to 12 months while housing is stabilized. 844‑626‑8687. (dcyf.wa.gov)
• Live in Seattle city limits and earn too much for WCCC? Apply for the City’s Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP). Typical processing 2–3 weeks. Income up to ~94% of State Median Income (SMI). Seattle CCAP. (seattle.gov)
• King County resident not eligible for WCCC? Join the Best Starts for Kids Child Care Subsidy waitlist (up to 85% SMI; selection by lottery when funds open). Best Starts Child Care Subsidy. (beststartsblog.com)
• Need more help connecting to resources (WIC, SNAP, child development, childcare leads)? Call the Help Me Grow Washington Hotline: 800‑322‑2588. (helpmegrowwa.org)

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Quick Reference Cheat Sheet

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Why this guide beats the usual Google results

Most top results give general info or old numbers. Common gaps we fixed here:

• Up‑to‑date WCCC copay amounts and 2024–25 SMI income chart bands. Many pages still show the pre‑2024 $115 middle copay; Washington raised and re‑tiered copays. We cite DCYF’s current chart. (dcyf.wa.gov)
• Clear contact routes and realistic timelines. Copay/eligibility details come straight from DCYF; average processing time reference and the phone‑first tip are pulled from DCYF news and partner guidance. (dcyf.wa.gov, momsrising.org)
• Real local Plan B’s (Seattle CCAP, Best Starts for Kids) with current income bands and waitlist reality. (seattle.gov, beststartsblog.com)
• Special‑needs rates and Family/Friend/Neighbor (FFN) pay rates many guides ignore. (dcyf.wa.gov, law.cornell.edu)

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The core program: Working Connections Child Care (WCCC)

Action to take now

• Apply today by phone (844‑626‑8687) or online at Washington Connection. Phone is often fastest if you have questions or need language support. (dcyf.wa.gov, momsrising.org)
• If you don’t have a provider yet, apply anyway. You can add a provider after DCYF starts your case. Use [Child Care Aware’s Family Center, 800‑446‑1114] to find openings, or search [Child Care Check] for licensing and inspection history. (childcareawarewa.org, dcyf.wa.gov)

Who qualifies (in plain language)

• Live in Washington, have a child under 13 (or under 19 with special needs), and be in an approved activity (work, approved education/training, WorkFirst/BFET). Your resources must be under $1 million. (dcyf.wa.gov)
• Income at application must be at or below 60% of State Median Income (SMI); at reapplication, up to 65% SMI. (dcyf.wa.gov)
• Some families have priority and skip any waitlist (if one is in effect): TANF families, foster children, families with a child with special needs, certain teen parents, and families recently involved with child protective/welfare services with a referral. (law.cornell.edu)

What you pay (copays)

WCCC copays are flat monthly amounts based on your income band:

• $0 (≤20% SMI)
• $65 (>20–36% SMI)
• $90 (>36–50% SMI)
• $165 (>50–60% SMI)
• $215 (>60–65% SMI at reapplication only)

Washington advertises that eligible families “pay no more than $165\ast \ast ”(fornewapprovalsupto60$215. (dcyf.wa.gov)

2024–25 income bands (monthly, by family size)

Below is a quick slice of DCYF’s chart so you can place your income. Use the full DCYF table for sizes up to 20 and all bands.

Full chart and “Copay Calculation Table” are posted on DCYF’s WCCC page. (dcyf.wa.gov)

How to apply (and how long it takes)

• Apply by phone (844‑626‑8687) or online at Washington Connection. You can also mail or fax (see the DSHS/CSO page) but phone/online is quicker. Average processing is often around 10 days (can be faster if DCYF can cross‑verify). (dshs.wa.gov, dcyf.wa.gov)
• If approved, WCCC is authorized for 12 months at a time. You won’t lose benefits mid‑authorization if your income rises modestly or your work hours fluctuate. (law.cornell.edu)

Documents you may be asked for (don’t overthink this)

Bring or upload what you have. DCYF can verify some items from state systems.

• ID/residency for the child (birth certificate if not already in state systems).
• Proof of Washington address (lease, or a simple landlord statement—DCYF has a form).
• Your activity: job schedule/pay stubs, or school enrollment and credits.
• Income: pay stubs, employer statement, self‑employment tax return or profit/loss.
• Child support received/paid.
• Single‑parent status, if applicable (DCYF’s one‑page “Single Parent Declaration” is accepted).

DCYF lists what they verify and sample forms on the WCCC page. Forms: Single Parent Declaration (Form 27‑164) and landlord statement (Form 16‑238). (webdevuat.dcyf.wa.gov, dcyf.wa.gov)

Finding a provider that takes subsidy

• Use the free Family Center: 800‑446‑1114 (will filter for openings that accept subsidy, your hours, languages, and special needs). Or search [Child Care Check], then ask the provider directly if they take WCCC. (childcareawarewa.org, dcyf.wa.gov)

Special situations that can help you

• Homelessness: up to 12 months of child care while you stabilize housing. (dcyf.wa.gov)
• WorkFirst/TANF: WCCC is designed to support WorkFirst activities; your DSHS worker can help coordinate, and some families have priority over any waitlist. DSHS TANF line 877‑501‑2233; office locator: DSHS office locations. (dshs.wa.gov, law.cornell.edu)

If your child has extra needs (disability, health, behavior)

Washington pays “special needs” rate add‑ons to providers so your child can be supported. Level 1 add‑ons range (example, centers): about $5.70–$11.35 per full‑day depending on region/age; Level 2 can go higher, up to $15.89/hour (converted to daily units). Ask your provider to apply with DCYF for the special needs rate. Details and tables are posted by DCYF. (dcyf.wa.gov)

Can I use a relative or a trusted neighbor?

Yes. “Family, Friend, and Neighbor (FFN)” and in‑home/relative care is allowed if the adult passes background checks and meets basic rules. Base state payment is $4.00/hour per child (as of July 1, 2024); special‑needs add‑ons are possible. (law.cornell.edu)

Common mistakes to avoid (learned from real cases)

• Starting care before your authorization start date and expecting back pay. Don’t assume backdating; confirm your authorization dates first.
• Not reporting your provider’s info to DCYF after approval—payments can’t start without it.
• Uploading unreadable photos of pay stubs; use clear scans or PDFs to avoid delays.
• Letting your 30‑day application window lapse—then you must start over. (law.cornell.edu)

What to do if this doesn’t work (Plan B)

• Call Child Care Aware Family Center 800‑446‑1114 and ask for hands‑on help with the application and finding providers with openings. (childcareawarewa.org)
• If you live in Seattle, apply for [Seattle CCAP] (income up to 94% SMI; typical processing 2–3 weeks; waitlist may apply). If in King County, join the [Best Starts for Kids] waitlist (up to 85% SMI). (seattle.gov, seattle.gov, beststartsblog.com)
• Call 211 (or 877‑211‑9274 if 211 won’t dial) to get local leads for scholarships, church‑based care, or flexible hours care. (wa211.org)

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How much does child care cost in Washington (and why subsidy matters)

• Washington is one of the least affordable states for child care. Recent reporting using Child Care Aware of America data put the average infant center price around $21,350/year in WA—far above the national average. CCAoA’s 2024 national report also shows child care costs have risen 29% since 2020. (spokesman.com, childcareaware.org, info.childcareaware.org)
• For single mothers, Child Care Aware of Washington estimates infant center care can equal about half of median single‑mom income—which is why getting into WCCC (or CCAP/BSK) is so critical. (childcareawarewa.org)

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ECEAP and Head Start: Free preschool for 3‑ and 4‑year‑olds (and some under 3)

Action to take now

• Use DCYF’s ECEAP & Head Start page to find local sites and apply early (spots are limited and prioritized). If you need a locator, start with DCYF’s ECEAP/Head Start page or the Head Start Locator tool. (dcyf.wa.gov, headstart.gov)

Who gets in

• ECEAP (state program): Age 3–4; income at or below 36% SMI, or automatic eligibility for foster, children with IEPs, homeless, some tribal eligibility up to 100% SMI, and other categorical factors. Free. (dcyf.wa.gov)
• Head Start: Typically at or below 100% FPL (some up to 130% FPL); foster, homeless, and families on TANF/SSI are categorically eligible. Free. (dcyf.wa.gov)

Reality checks

• Slots fill quickly; most programs prioritize the lowest incomes and highest needs.
• Transportation varies; ask your site.
• Working‑day options exist in some places (10‑hour preschool + care), but not everywhere. (dcyf.wa.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work (Plan B)

• Pair ECEAP/Head Start with WCCC for wraparound hours if you work more than the class day (ask your provider about “dual enrollment”).
• If you’re over ECEAP/Head Start income but still can’t afford care, try Seattle CCAP or BSK. (seattle.gov, beststartsblog.com)

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Seasonal Child Care (SCC)

Action to take now

• If you do seasonal farm work in specific counties and are not on TANF, apply for SCC by phone 844‑626‑8687 or via Washington Connection. (dcyf.wa.gov)

Notes

• SCC follows WCCC rules for income and copays but is targeted by county and work type.
• Keep pay and work dates handy for verification.
• If SCC isn’t available in your county, apply for WCCC instead. (dcyf.wa.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work (Plan B)

• Ask Child Care Aware (800‑446‑1114) about local scholarships and seasonal care providers that accept subsidy. (childcareawarewa.org)

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Special‑needs supports and rates (for children who need extra help)

If your child needs extra support, DCYF can authorize a special needs rate on top of the base subsidy. Providers request it with your consent.

• Level 1 add‑ons have set daily amounts (vary by region/age). Example, center care: roughly $5.70–$11.35 per full day; family home rates differ slightly.
• Level 2 can go higher, up to $15.89/hour (converted to daily units), based on your child’s needs and provider documentation.

Your first step is to tell your provider and your DCYF worker you want to request a special needs rate. (dcyf.wa.gov)

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If you want a relative, neighbor, or in‑home care (FFN)

• Allowed under WCCC/SCC if the adult is 18+, passes the DCYF background check, and meets basic rules.
• Base pay is $4.00/hour per child (as of July 1, 2024); special‑needs add‑ons may be approved. (law.cornell.edu)

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Local programs that can close gaps

Sources: Seattle DEEL; King County Best Starts; Child Care Aware of Washington. (seattle.gov, beststartsblog.com, childcareawarewa.org)

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Application checklist (print this)

• Photo ID and proof of Washington address (lease, utility, or DCYF landlord statement form).
• Child’s birth certificate (if not verified in state systems).
• Proof of income (last 30 days of pay stubs; employer letter if new job; self‑employed: tax return + profit/loss).
• School/training: enrollment and credit load; for part‑time college, proof of 20 work hours/week (if required).
• Child support received/paid (if relevant).
• Provider’s name and phone (if you’ve chosen one; if not, DCYF can still process).
• If single, the DCYF Single Parent Declaration (Form 27‑164) or a brief signed statement. (webdevuat.dcyf.wa.gov, dcyf.wa.gov)

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Timelines you can expect

Source: DCYF posts average processing time guidance; partners like MomsRising recommend phone for fastest eligibility check. (dcyf.wa.gov, momsrising.org)

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Common mistakes to avoid (and how to avoid them)

• Forgetting to call after you submit online. If you need care urgently or have questions, call 844‑626‑8687 to flag your application and confirm what’s still needed. (dcyf.wa.gov)
• Uploading partial or unclear documents. Scan or photograph in good light; include all pages.
• Not telling DCYF when your provider changes. Call right away; payments can’t move to a new site until DCYF updates your authorization. (dcyf.wa.gov)
• Missing your reapplication window. Put a reminder on your phone for 11 months out.
• Assuming ECEAP/Head Start automatically includes full‑day care year‑round. Ask about hours, calendars, and if WCCC can cover wraparound. (dcyf.wa.gov)

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Diverse Communities: getting the right door, not a dead end

• LGBTQ+ single mothers: Ask Child Care Aware (800‑446‑1114) for providers with inclusive practices and for help with school/family paperwork that matches your family. Use [Child Care Check] to review any complaint history. (childcareawarewa.org, dcyf.wa.gov)
• Single mothers with disabilities or with disabled children: Ask your provider/DCYF about the WCCC special‑needs rate (Level 1/2). If you hit barriers, call DCYF Constituent Relations 800‑723‑4831 for help troubleshooting. (dcyf.wa.gov)
• Veteran single mothers: Washington has a King County Veteran Student Child Care Subsidy; colleges also have campus child care. Check your campus and county human services page for veteran‑specific supports. (kingcounty.gov)
• Immigrant/refugee single moms: You can apply for WCCC regardless of child’s birthplace if the child is a U.S. citizen, legal resident, or otherwise federally eligible; language support is offered on DCYF lines. For broader help (medical/food/child development), call Help Me Grow 800‑322‑2588. (dcyf.wa.gov, helpmegrowwa.org)
• Tribal‑specific resources: Many Washington tribes run their own CCDF childcare assistance. You may be eligible through your tribe or through WCCC (“dual eligibility”). Start with your tribe or use the federal tribal CCDF contact list. (dshs.wa.gov, acf.gov)
• Rural single moms: Supply is tighter. Call 800‑446‑1114 and ask for a “wider radius” search, mixed‑hours options, and providers that accept subsidy. Ask about FFN approval as a bridge until a slot opens. (ccanorthwest.org)
• Single fathers raising kids: Same rules and supports as moms—everything here applies.
• Language access: DCYF offers interpreter services by phone; Child Care Aware provides support in 250+ languages via interpreters. (dcyf.wa.gov, ccacwa.org)

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Regional contacts you’ll actually use

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Real‑world examples

• Example A: You earn $3,000/mo\ast \ast (familyof2).Yourcopaybandis\ast \ast$90. DCYF pays the provider up to the authorized subsidy rate; you pay your fixed copay plus any difference between the provider’s rate and the state maximum. (dcyf.wa.gov)
• Example B: Family of 4 earning $4,100/mo\ast \ast applies.DCYF’sownexampleshowsa\ast \ast$90 copay; if your hours fluctuate, your authorization remains for 12 months. (dcyf.wa.gov)
• Example C: Your toddler has therapy needs, and the center documents extra staffing time. DCYF approves a Level 2 special‑needs rate that adds up to $15.89/hr on top of the base. Your copay doesn’t change. (dcyf.wa.gov)

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Policy watch (2025)

• Washington’s 2025–27 budget made changes that may affect some planned expansions (e.g., child‑care employee/apprenticeship expansions). Always verify current rules on the DCYF WCCC page or by calling 844‑626‑8687. (dcyf.wa.gov)

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10 Washington‑specific FAQs

• How fast will my WCCC application be decided?
  Often around 10 days, faster if documents are clear and DCYF can cross‑verify. Complex cases can take longer. (dcyf.wa.gov)
• Can I qualify while job‑searching?
  Yes, in WorkFirst/BFET pathways and other approved activities. Ask your DSHS/WorkFirst worker to coordinate so WCCC lines up with your plan. (dshs.wa.gov)
• Do I need a provider before I apply?
  No. Apply first; you can choose a provider after. DCYF still needs the provider’s name/phone before payments start. (dcyf.wa.gov)
• My schedule is variable (retail/healthcare). Can WCCC cover that?
  Yes. Authorizations can include mixed schedules; talk with your worker and provider about hours and units.
• What if my provider doesn’t accept subsidy?
  You can switch to a subsidized provider or use FFN (relative/in‑home) while you search. FFN base pay is $4.00/hour. (law.cornell.edu)
• Will I owe back pay if DCYF starts late?
  Payments generally start from your authorization date with an approved provider. Don’t assume backdating—confirm dates with DCYF. (law.cornell.edu)
• Do teen parents pay a copay?
  Parents age 21 or younger in high school or equivalency have no copay. (lawfilesext.leg.wa.gov)
• Is there a waitlist?
  Sometimes. Priority groups (TANF, foster, special needs, certain recent child‑welfare involvement) may bypass it. (law.cornell.edu)
• Where can I get help in my language?
  DCYF and Child Care Aware offer phone interpretation. Call 844‑626‑8687 or 800‑446‑1114. (dcyf.wa.gov, childcareawarewa.org)
• How do I find safe, quality care?
  Use [Child Care Check] (licensing, inspections, complaints) and ask about Early Achievers ratings. Call Child Care Aware for a curated list. (dcyf.wa.gov)

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Quick reference tables you can copy/paste

Table: WCCC income/coplay bands at a glance (selected sizes)

Source: DCYF WCCC page (effective Oct. 1, 2024). (dcyf.wa.gov)

Table: Documents checklist (what DCYF might ask for)

Reference: DCYF verification list on WCCC page; DCYF forms library. (webdevuat.dcyf.wa.gov, dcyf.wa.gov)

Table: Special‑needs rate add‑ons (overview)

Source and full rate tables: DCYF “How to Apply for WCCC Special Needs Rate.” (dcyf.wa.gov)

Table: Where to call

Sources in sections above. (dcyf.wa.gov, childcareawarewa.org, helpmegrowwa.org, dshs.wa.gov, wa211.org)

Table: Local alternatives (Seattle/King County)

Sources: Seattle DEEL; King County BSK. (seattle.gov, beststartsblog.com)

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Quick Reference “Cheat Sheet” (copy to your notes app)

• Apply for WCCC by phone 844‑626‑8687 or online. Have your pay stubs and schedule ready. (dcyf.wa.gov)
• If you don’t have a provider yet, apply anyway. Then call 800‑446‑1114 to get a list of openings that accept subsidy. (childcareawarewa.org)
• Expect a decision in about 10 days if your documents are clear. Watch your mail and WA Connections inbox. (dcyf.wa.gov)
• Copays are flat: $0/$65 / $90/$165 (or $215 for some reapplications at 60–65% SMI). (dcyf.wa.gov)
• If WCCC says no, check [Seattle CCAP] or [Best Starts for Kids], and call 211 and the Help Me Grow Hotline 800‑322‑2588 for more leads. (seattle.gov, beststartsblog.com, wa211.org, helpmegrowwa.org)

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What if you hit a wall with an agency?

• Ask for a supervisor call‑back from the DCYF Contact Center (844‑626‑8687). Be ready with your Client ID, application date, and what’s missing. (dcyf.wa.gov)
• For persistent issues, contact DCYF Constituent Relations (800‑723‑4831) and briefly describe the case snag. (dcyf.wa.gov)
• If you need local, live assistance navigating services, dial 211. (wa211.org)

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About costs vs. help (a reality check)

Child care in WA is expensive; infant center care averages over $21k/year and can swallow ~50% of a single mom’s median income. WCCC, CCAP, BSK, and ECEAP/Head Start exist so you don’t have to choose between care and work/school. Use the phone numbers and links here—don’t self‑reject. If you’re denied once, try again with help from Child Care Aware or Help Me Grow. (spokesman.com, childcareawarewa.org)

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What to do if this still doesn’t solve child care this month (Plan B)

• Consider FFN (relative/in‑home) as a bridge while you look for a slot. DCYF pays $4.00/hour under WCCC rules once authorized. (law.cornell.edu)
• Ask your provider about sliding scale, scholarships, or a temporary part‑time schedule.
• If you’re a student parent, ask your college about campus child care and WCCC eligibility for education programs (yes—community/technical/tribal colleges and some vocational tracks qualify). (dcyf.wa.gov)
• Re‑apply if your income drops, you become homeless, or your work/school hours change in a way that helps eligibility. DCYF can reassess. (dcyf.wa.gov)

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About This Guide

Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team

This guide uses official sources from the Washington State Department of Children, Youth & Families (DCYF), DSHS, Head Start, the City of Seattle, King County, and established nonprofits (Child Care Aware of Washington, Help Me Grow WA). It is produced based on our Editorial Standards using only official sources, regularly updated and monitored, but not affiliated with any government agency and not a substitute for official agency guidance. Individual eligibility outcomes cannot be guaranteed.

Last verified September 2025, next review April 2026.

Please send corrections to info@asinglemother.org.

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Disclaimer

Program rules, income limits, copays, and timelines can change at any time. Always verify the latest details with the Washington State Department of Children, Youth & Families (DCYF), your local program, or your tribe before making financial decisions. Links above go to official sources; if a link changes, call the listed phone numbers to confirm.

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Sources cited in‑text:

• DCYF WCCC eligibility, income chart, copays, application and verification steps, special situations, finding care (Child Care Aware, Child Care Check), and contact numbers. (dcyf.wa.gov, dcyf.wa.gov, childcareawarewa.org)
• DCYF news: expansion notes; “no more than $165” messaging; processing time reference. (dcyf.wa.gov)
• WAC references for 12‑month eligibility, copays, categorical eligibility, and priority/waitlist rules. (law.cornell.edu, lawfilesext.leg.wa.gov)
• Special needs rate tables and FFN/in‑home pay. (dcyf.wa.gov, law.cornell.edu)
• Seasonal Child Care program, application routes. (dcyf.wa.gov)
• ECEAP & Head Start (eligibility and how to enroll). (dcyf.wa.gov)
• Seattle CCAP (income table, processing times, and savings). (seattle.gov)
• Best Starts for Kids Subsidy (waitlist and income cap). (beststartsblog.com)
• Child care affordability and costs in WA (Child Care Aware of America national report, WA press coverage) and CCA of WA “Key Statistics” for single‑mom affordability. (childcareaware.org, spokesman.com, childcareawarewa.org)
• 211 and Help Me Grow WA hotlines. (wa211.org, helpmegrowwa.org)
• Tribal child care contacts (federal CCDF tribal list) and dual eligibility context. (acf.gov, dshs.wa.gov)

Notes on 2025 budget impacts to early learning/child care: DCYF summary. Always re‑verify expansions in effect. (dcyf.wa.gov)

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🏛️More Washington Resources for Single Mothers

Explore all assistance programs in 34 categories available in Washington

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