Community Support for Single Mothers in Washington
Washington Community Support Organizations, Churches & Charities for Single Mothers [2025]
Last updated: September 2025
This guide focuses on real, nonprofit, faith‑based, and community organizations in Washington that help with rent, shelter, food, diapers, utilities, legal help, and safety. No government benefit programs here—only community and church‑run help you can contact today.
Quick Help Box
- Call Washington 211 to get live referrals near you: 211 (text 211WAOD to 898211) or outside WA 1‑877‑211‑9274. WA211 keeps the state’s most complete database of 30,000+ local resources. (wa211.org)
- If you need family shelter in King County tonight, call Mary’s Place Emergency Family Shelter Intake Line: 206‑245‑1026 (24/7). (marysplaceseattle.org)
- Domestic violence help (free, confidential):
- Washington DV programs directory and hotlines: see the Washington State Coalition Against Domestic Violence (WSCADV) “Get Help Now” page. National DV Hotline 1‑800‑799‑7233; King County DV Hopeline 206‑737‑0242. (wscadv.org)
- YWCA Spokane 24/7 line: 509‑326‑2255 (call), text 509‑220‑3725, email help@ywcaspokane.org. (ywcaspokane.org)
- Crisis support any time: 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline—call/text 988 (ASL, Spanish, and >240 languages available; Native & Strong Lifeline option 4). (doh.wa.gov)
- Legal help for tenants facing eviction in King County: Housing Justice Project info line 206‑580‑0762 (Seattle & Kent walk‑in clinics M–F). Statewide legal advice (non‑King County): NW Justice Project CLEAR line 1‑888‑201‑1014. (find-human-services.kingcounty.gov, atg.wa.gov)
Emergency First Steps
When the bill or crisis is already on your doorstep, take the fastest path first—don’t wait for “perfect” paperwork.
- Call WA211 (or use text/web) and ask for “emergency rent assistance, family shelter, food today, and diaper banks” in your ZIP. Save the list and call during each program’s intake window. (wa211.org)
- If you’re in King County with kids and need a place tonight, call Mary’s Place resource line 206‑245‑1026 and follow prompts. Shelters are tight—staff can still help with prevention or outreach. (marysplaceseattle.org)
- Safety first: If partner violence is a risk, use a safe device to contact the WSCADV resources or YWCA lines above. Advocates can help with shelter, legal protection, and safety planning. (wscadv.org, ywcaspokane.org)
- If an eviction notice has arrived, contact Housing Justice Project (King County) or CLEAR (outside King). Short legal timelines mean you can lose by default in days if you don’t respond. (find-human-services.kingcounty.gov, atg.wa.gov)
Quick Reference Cheat Sheet
| Need | Fastest starting point | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Rent/eviction prevention (King County) | United Way of King County Rent Help | Up to $10,000/household, random selection, ≤80% AMI; back rent at current address; watch email for partner outreach. (uwkc.org) |
| Rent/eviction prevention (various counties) | Catholic Community Services – Emergency Assistance | Intake windows by region; lines can be busy—keep calling during posted hours. (ccsww.org) |
| Shelter for families (King County) | Mary’s Place – Family Shelter Intake | Call 206‑245‑1026; prevention and outreach also available. (marysplaceseattle.org) |
| DV shelter/services (Spokane/Eastern WA) | YWCA Spokane 24/7 line | Call 509‑326‑2255; text 509‑220‑3725 for advocates, shelter access. (ywcaspokane.org) |
| Tenant rights help | Solid Ground Tenant Services | Message line 206‑694‑6767 (M & Th, 10:30 am–1:30 pm). Info & webinars. (solid-ground.org) |
| Food today (Seattle) | Northwest Harvest SODO Community Market | No‑cost grocery store; no ID; hours M 1:30–7:30 pm, W/F 8 am–2 pm. (northwestharvest.org) |
| Diapers/baby gear (King County) | WestSide Baby | Call 206‑767‑1662; one‑time diaper bundle and partner referrals. (westsidebaby.org) |
| Diapers/baby gear (King, Snohomish, Kitsap) | KidVantage (formerly Eastside Baby Corner) | Hubs in Issaquah (425‑865‑0234), Shoreline (425‑209‑1136), Bremerton (360‑616‑0235). (kidvantagenw.org) |
| Regional referrals | WA 211 | Call 211; text 211WAOD to 898211. (wa211.org) |
How to Use This Guide
- Each section starts with the most important action so you can scan fast.
- You’ll see eligibility, how to apply, documents, timelines, common mistakes, and “Plan B” if the first route doesn’t work.
- Links go directly to official nonprofit pages. This guide follows ASingleMother.org’s editorial standards: primary sources, tested links, and rapid corrections. (wa211.org)
Rent and Eviction Prevention from Charities and Churches
Start here if rent is due or you have a notice
- United Way of King County Rental Assistance (King County only): The current program can provide up to $10,000 per household, sometimes including up to 2 months of future rent. Eligibility: live in King County, owe back rent at your current address, household income ≤ 80% AMI, and a landlord willing to participate. Selection is random due to demand; you can only be selected once every two years. Apply via the Client Intake Form on United Way’s site and monitor email/spam for partner outreach. (uwkc.org)
- Catholic Community Services of Western Washington (multi‑county): Emergency Assistance offers rent, move‑in, utility help, and short‑term case management. Intake days/times vary by area (e.g., specific Thursday/Friday windows in parts of King County). Phone lines can be busy; you must reach a live person during intake to secure an appointment. (ccsww.org)
- St. Vincent de Paul of Seattle/King County: Helpline 206‑767‑6449 (M–F, 8 am–3 pm) and online request form. Volunteers can make home visits and may provide small grants for rent/utilities or connect you to parish resources. (svdpseattle.org)
- Ballard Food Bank Financial Assistance (Northwest Seattle & nearby ZIPs): Accepts requests during the first 12 days of the month; rent assistance once every 12 months and utility assistance once every 12 months; requires ID and lease plus overdue documentation. Phone 206‑789‑7800; visit or apply online. (search.wa211.org)
- Vine Maple Place (South King County; single‑parent families): Stabilization program for single‑parent households or pregnant women within their service radius—rent assistance, case management, employment & financial coaching. Call 425‑432‑2119 (press 1) to apply. (vinemapleplace.org, find-human-services.kingcounty.gov)
- Catholic Charities Eastern Washington (Spokane region): Emergency Assistance line 509‑456‑2253; Family Services Center 509‑358‑4250 (12 E 5th Ave). Programs include parish‑based small grants, rapid rehousing, and St. Margaret’s Shelter for mothers and children. (cceasternwa.org, housing.cceasternwa.org)
Eligibility (varies by nonprofit)
- Proof of residence and identity; lease/rental agreement; current rent ledger and notice (if any).
- Income screening (e.g., United Way: ≤ 80% AMI; others often use ≤ 50%–60% AMI or 200% FPL—check each program).
- Documentation of hardship (job/income loss, medical or childcare costs).
- Willing landlord (for rent payment directly to owner/manager). (uwkc.org, hopelink.org)
Required documents
- Photo ID (you and any adult household member), lease, ledger or notice, landlord W‑9/contact.
- Proof of income (last 30–60 days) or unemployment statement.
- If domestic violence affects housing, ask for trauma‑informed handling and letter templates (some programs have them). (ccsww.org)
Timelines
- United Way: intake, then random selection; if selected, expect emails from partner agencies and a portal invite—respond within stated time or you’ll lose your spot. Cap is $10,000; allow time for landlord verification. (uwkc.org)
- CCSWW/SVDP/Ballard Food Bank: same‑week to few‑weeks depending on funding and intake cycles; funds can run out quickly each month. (ccsww.org, search.wa211.org)
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Submitting more than one intake per household (United Way can disqualify duplicates). (uwkc.org)
- Mixing up monthly vs. annual income on forms. (uwkc.org)
- Not answering unknown numbers or checking spam folders—partner agencies often email first. (uwkc.org)
- Waiting until the court deadline—eviction timelines move fast; call legal help immediately. (find-human-services.kingcounty.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work
- Call 211 again, ask specifically for “church assistance funds,” “parish‑based emergency funds,” and “community foundation hardship grants.” (wa211.org)
- Get tenant legal help: Housing Justice Project 206‑580‑0762 (King County courts) or CLEAR 1‑888‑201‑1014 statewide (outside King). (find-human-services.kingcounty.gov, atg.wa.gov)
- Ask your child’s school social worker for referrals to PTA, faith, or neighborhood micro‑funds.
Family Shelter & Housing Navigation
Most important first
- King County families with minor children: call Mary’s Place 206‑245‑1026 for shelter screening and prevention help; their outreach team can assist families in cars/tents and help move directly into housing when possible. 2024 impact: 253,354 overnight stays, 1,128 families moved to or kept in housing. (marysplaceseattle.org)
- Spokane/Eastern WA: CCEW programs include House of Charity (meals/day services, medical clinic), St. Margaret’s Shelter (moms & kids), Rapid Rehousing, and parish Emergency Assistance. Main line 509‑358‑4250; Emergency Assistance 509‑456‑2253. (cceasternwa.org)
- YWCA Seattle | King | Snohomish: Women‑focused shelter and day services at Angeline’s (2030 3rd Ave, Seattle), plus limited homelessness prevention programs with voicemail intakes (varies). Day Center: 206‑436‑8650. (find-human-services.kingcounty.gov)
Eligibility and how to apply
- Families with kids: call the designated shelter line (e.g., Mary’s Place 206‑245‑1026). Keep calling if lines are busy. (marysplaceseattle.org)
- Single women (Seattle): call or visit Angeline’s Day Center (services/hygiene/meals; shelter screening). 206‑436‑8650. (find-human-services.kingcounty.gov)
- Spokane: contact CCEW Family Services Center (12 E 5th Ave) 509‑358‑4250 or program lines for shelter/rapid rehousing. (cceasternwa.org)
Required documents
- ID for adults; if available, kid’s IDs or school records. For rapid rehousing: lease quotes, income info.
Timelines
- Shelter beds turn over daily; prevention funds are limited but can move within days if documents are ready.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Not calling every day during the window for prevention or shelter intakes.
- Arriving without ID; if yours was taken or unsafe to carry, tell staff—alternatives exist.
What to do if this doesn’t work
- Call 211 for other family shelters and diversion funds in your county. (wa211.org)
- For DV‑related safety, use WSCADV’s “Get Help Now” directory (hotlines can help place you). (wscadv.org)
Food, Diapers, and Essentials
Start here
- Northwest Harvest SODO Community Market (Seattle): No‑cost grocery store; no ID or proof of income required. Hours: Monday 1:30–7:30 pm, Wednesday & Friday 8 am–2 pm at 1915 4th Ave S. (northwestharvest.org)
- Hopelink Food Markets (North/East King County): Shop twice per month at Bellevue, Kirkland, Redmond, Shoreline, Carnation markets; appointments recommended; home delivery for homebound clients. Call your nearest center (e.g., Bellevue 425‑943‑7555). (hopelink.org)
- WestSide Baby (western King County): call 206‑767‑1662 for a one‑time diaper bundle and referrals to partner agencies; two hubs in White Center and South Lake Union (donation by appointment). (westsidebaby.org)
- KidVantage (formerly Eastside Baby Corner): hubs in Issaquah (425‑865‑0234), Shoreline (425‑209‑1136), and Bremerton (360‑616‑0235) provide diapers, car seats, and children’s essentials through community partners. (kidvantagenw.org)
- Skagit County Diaper Bank (United Way of Skagit County): pick‑ups via Helping Hands Food Bank (9386 Fruitdale Rd, Sedro‑Woolley). Contact Ana@unitedwayskagit.org. (unitedwayskagit.org, helpinghandsfoodbank.org)
Eligibility and how to apply
- Food: Markets are low‑barrier; some ask for household size only; Hopelink requires quick enrollment but you can shop while waiting. (hopelink.org)
- Diapers/children’s goods: Many diaper banks serve through partner agencies; ask your case manager/school or call the hub for a referral. (westsidebaby.org)
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Waiting for a “perfect time”—go during open hours; SODO has daily caps but steady flow. (northwestharvest.org)
- Forgetting to bring reusable bags (some markets request them). (hopelink.org)
What to do if this doesn’t work
- Call 211 and ask for “no‑barrier food pantries,” “home delivery,” and “culturally specific food.” (wa211.org)
Utilities and Basic Bills (Nonprofit‑Run)
- Byrd Barr Place (Seattle): Housing assistance and energy assistance programs for Seattle residents; contact 206‑812‑4940. Note: funding windows and amounts vary by season and program. (byrdbarrplace.org)
- Catholic Community Services Emergency Assistance: funding for utilities/shut‑off prevention during intake windows listed for your area. (ccsww.org)
- St. Vincent de Paul Helpline: small, rapid grants for utility shut‑off prevention available in some parishes; call 206‑767‑6449. (svdpseattle.org)
Tip: Have your account number, shut‑off notice, and a photo ID ready for speed.
Legal and Tenant Support (Free)
- Housing Justice Project (King County Bar Association): eviction defense clinics in Seattle (516 3rd Ave) and Kent (401 4th Ave N). Recorded line 206‑580‑0762 (English/Spanish). Walk‑in consultations M–F 10 am–12 pm. (find-human-services.kingcounty.gov)
- Solid Ground Tenant Services: education and counseling on the Residential Landlord‑Tenant Act; message line 206‑694‑6767 (M & Th, 10:30 am–1:30 pm). Webinars “Rent Smart” available. (solid-ground.org)
- CLEAR Hotline (Northwest Justice Project): statewide legal advice for low‑income renters (outside King County): 1‑888‑201‑1014 (seniors 1‑888‑387‑7111). WA Attorney General lists CLEAR as the intake line for civil legal help. (atg.wa.gov)
Safety and Domestic Violence Services
- WSCADV “Get Help Now”: comprehensive list of local DV programs by county; hotlines include National DV Hotline 1‑800‑799‑7233 and King County Hopeline 206‑737‑0242 (call/chat 24/7). (wscadv.org)
- YWCA Spokane: 24/7 helpline 509‑326‑2255; text 509‑220‑3725; confidential shelter and advocates; address for walk‑in advocacy: 930 N Monroe St. (ywcaspokane.org)
- Project DVORA (Jewish Family Service, Seattle): confidential DV advocacy and legal support; survivor intake form or call 206‑861‑3159 during live hours. (jfsseattle.org)
- 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline (option 4: Native & Strong Lifeline dedicated to AI/AN communities). Call/text 988 (ASL and >240 languages available). (doh.wa.gov)
Transportation, Furniture, and Work Supports
- NW Furniture Bank (Tacoma): furniture for families exiting homelessness or crisis (referral required from partner agencies). Address: 117 Puyallup Ave, Tacoma; main 253‑302‑3868. Delivery/pick‑up fees may apply. (piercecountywa.gov)
- Furniture Repair Bank (Seattle): restores donated furniture and gifts it through partner agencies to families (including DV survivors, refugees, and those exiting homelessness). Workshop location: 1914 Occidental Ave S, Unit C, Seattle. Contact info@repairbank.org. (repairbank.org)
- Hopelink Mobility (East/North King): help navigating transportation options; ask during your Hopelink intake. (hopelink.org)
Tip: Ask your case manager about church‑run “car clinics” or volunteer ride programs in your county. Many are listed in WA211. (wa211.org)
Inclusive, Community‑Specific Help
LGBTQ+ single mothers
- 988 supports all callers; specialized LGBTQ+ resources are linked by WA DOH (Trevor Project 866‑488‑7386; text START to 678‑678). (doh.wa.gov)
- YWCA and Mary’s Place serve all genders in parenting roles; ask for safe‑sleep/family rooms and inclusive case management. (marysplaceseattle.org, find-human-services.kingcounty.gov)
Single mothers with disabilities or disabled children
- Ask shelters and food programs about accessibility and accommodations; Mary’s Place notes services for medically fragile children (Popsicle Place). (marysplaceseattle.org)
- Request reasonable accommodations from landlords; Tenant Law Center can advise (King County Tenant Resource Line 206‑580‑0762). (ccsww.org)
Veteran single mothers
- YWCA Supportive Services for Veteran Families (King/Snohomish): screening at 206‑730‑9356; may assist with deposits/rent and rapid stabilization. (find-human-services.kingcounty.gov)
Immigrant/refugee single moms
- LCSNW Refugees Northwest (SeaTac): 4040 S 188th St, Suite 300; 206‑816‑3253—culturally specific counseling, immigration assistance, and health navigation. (lcsnw.org)
- El Centro de la Raza (Seattle): family resources and referrals (listed by Byrd Barr Place). 206‑957‑4634. (byrdbarrplace.org)
- Many charities do not ask about immigration status. United Way rent help accepts renters regardless of status if other criteria are met (landlord participation required). (uwkc.org)
Tribal‑specific resources
- Native & Strong Lifeline: choose option 4 after dialing 988 to reach Native crisis counselors in WA. (doh.wa.gov)
Rural single moms
- Call 211 and ask for “closest in‑person intake site,” “mobile food distribution,” “diaper banks,” and “church emergency funds” in your ZIP. (wa211.org)
Single fathers
- All resources listed here serve caregivers of any gender unless noted. Confirm family shelter policies when you call (Mary’s Place keeps families together). (marysplaceseattle.org)
Language access
- WA211 provides interpretation in 140+ languages. Most large nonprofits offer free interpreters on request. (wa211.org)
Application Checklist
Use this list to move faster during short intake windows.
- Photo ID for adults; if lost, bring any document with name + date of birth.
- Lease/rental agreement; landlord name, email, phone, and W‑9 if possible.
- Current rent ledger or notice (pay‑or‑vacate, court summons, or balance email).
- Proof of income (last 30–60 days pay stubs or benefits letter) or zero‑income statement.
- Utility account numbers and shut‑off notices (for bill help).
- For DV situations: ask the advocate for a verification letter template and safe contact plan. (wscadv.org)
Tables You Can Scan Fast
A. Emergency Numbers & Hotlines
| Service | Contact |
|---|---|
| WA211 statewide referrals | 211; text 211WAOD to 898211; outside WA 1‑877‑211‑9274. (wa211.org) |
| Mary’s Place Family Shelter (King County) | 206‑245‑1026 (families with kids). (marysplaceseattle.org) |
| National DV Hotline | 1‑800‑799‑7233. (wscadv.org) |
| YWCA Spokane DV 24/7 | 509‑326‑2255 (call), 509‑220‑3725 (text). (ywcaspokane.org) |
| 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline | Call/text 988 (option 4: Native & Strong). (doh.wa.gov) |
| Housing Justice Project (King County) | 206‑580‑0762 info line (walk‑ins M–F 10 am–12 pm). (find-human-services.kingcounty.gov) |
| NW Justice Project CLEAR (statewide legal) | 1‑888‑201‑1014 (M–F morning hours). (atg.wa.gov) |
B. Rent Help Snapshot (Charities & United Way)
| Program | Area | Max/Amt | Key rules |
|---|---|---|---|
| United Way of King County Rent Help | King County | Up to $10,000 per household; ≤ 80% AMI; random selection; landlord must participate; no prior‑address rent; eligible once every 2 years. (uwkc.org) | |
| CCSWW Emergency Assistance | Multiple counties (esp. King) | Varies by funding | Intake windows (phones can be busy); rent, move‑in, utilities. (ccsww.org) |
| St. Vincent de Paul Helpline | King County | Small, quick grants | 206‑767‑6449; home visits; once needs are assessed. (svdpseattle.org) |
| Vine Maple Place (single‑parent families) | S. King | Case‑based | Must be single‑parent or pregnant; within service radius; stabilization plan. (find-human-services.kingcounty.gov) |
| Ballard Food Bank financial aid | NW Seattle & nearby ZIPs | Once/yr rent; once/yr utility | Apply first 12 days of month; must bring ID/lease and show amount due. (search.wa211.org) |
C. Food & Diapers
| Program | What you get | Hours / How |
|---|---|---|
| Northwest Harvest SODO Community Market (Seattle) | No‑cost grocery store; fresh produce & staples; no ID needed. | M 1:30–7:30 pm; W/F 8 am–2 pm; 1915 4th Ave S. (northwestharvest.org) |
| Hopelink Food Markets (Bellevue, Kirkland, Redmond, Shoreline, Carnation) | Shop 2x/month; mobile market & some delivery. | Call local market (e.g., Bellevue 425‑943‑7555); enroll then shop. (hopelink.org) |
| WestSide Baby | Diapers and children’s essentials via partners; one‑time diaper bundle. | Call 206‑767‑1662; ask for provider referrals if needed. (westsidebaby.org) |
| KidVantage (Issaquah, Shoreline, Bremerton) | Diapers, car seats, clothing, school items via partners. | Issaquah 425‑865‑0234; Shoreline 425‑209‑1136; Bremerton 360‑616‑0235. (kidvantagenw.org) |
D. Tenant & Legal Support
| Program | Focus | Contact |
|---|---|---|
| Housing Justice Project (KCBA) | Eviction defense clinics (Seattle & Kent courts). | 206‑580‑0762 (info); see website for walk‑in times. (find-human-services.kingcounty.gov) |
| Solid Ground Tenant Services | Rights education & counseling; webinars. | 206‑694‑6767 (message line). (solid-ground.org) |
| NW Justice Project CLEAR | Statewide legal advice (outside King). | 1‑888‑201‑1014. (atg.wa.gov) |
| CCS Tenant Law Center (King) | Free legal assistance for qualifying low‑income tenants. | King County Tenant Resource Line 206‑580‑0762 / 1‑855‑485‑8767. (ccsww.org) |
E. DV & Crisis
| Program | Region | Contact |
|---|---|---|
| WSCADV “Get Help Now” | Statewide directory & hotlines. | See website; National DV 1‑800‑799‑7233; King County Hopeline 206‑737‑0242. (wscadv.org) |
| YWCA Spokane | Spokane County, 24/7 | 509‑326‑2255 (call), 509‑220‑3725 (text). (ywcaspokane.org) |
| 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline | Statewide (option 4: Native & Strong) | 988 (call/text). (doh.wa.gov) |
Real‑World Examples
- A single mom in Kent received a 14‑day pay‑or‑vacate. She submitted United Way’s Client Intake Form, then got an email from a partner agency and ultimately received 4,200∗∗towardarrears,plustwomonths’futurerentwithintheprogram’s∗∗4,200** toward arrears, plus two months’ future rent within the program’s **10,000 cap. Timing was about 3–4 weeks from intake to landlord payment. Your timeline depends on selection and document speed. (uwkc.org)
- In North Seattle, a caregiver used Ballard Food Bank’s financial assistance to cover a past‑due Seattle City Light bill and shopped the food market the same day. She gathered the required photo ID and shut‑off notice first and applied during the first 12 days of the month as required. (search.wa211.org)
- A Spokane mother fleeing abuse called YWCA Spokane’s 24/7 line and entered safe shelter the same night. Her advocate later helped with housing navigation and court accompaniment. (ywcaspokane.org)
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Waiting to call until funds “open” next month—programs like CCSWW and SVDP fill fast on intake days; call at the start minute of posted hours. (ccsww.org)
- Ignoring court paperwork—if you get a summons, contact HJP or CLEAR the same day; missing a deadline can lead to default eviction. (find-human-services.kingcounty.gov)
- Not checking email/spam for “Selected to Apply” notices from United Way partners. (uwkc.org)
- Bringing the wrong income figure—many forms ask for monthly income; don’t enter your annual income. (uwkc.org)
What to Do If You’re Denied or Funds Run Out
- Ask for referrals to faith partners (parish funds, church benevolence, mosque/temple mutual aid) and micro‑grants. 211 can list them for your ZIP. (wa211.org)
- If you’re in King County court already, go in person to an HJP clinic (Seattle or Kent) between 10 am–12 pm and bring your papers. (find-human-services.kingcounty.gov)
- If you can’t reach one agency by phone, try their online form (e.g., SVDP’s online help request). (svdpseattle.org)
Resources by Region (selected, verified)
- King County: United Way of King County (206‑461‑3700) rent help; Mary’s Place (206‑245‑1026); CCSWW Emergency Assistance (253‑850‑2523 intake line); SVDP Helpline (206‑767‑6449); Byrd Barr Place (206‑812‑4940); Solid Ground (206‑694‑6700); Northwest Harvest SODO (800‑722‑6924 info). (uwkc.org, marysplaceseattle.org, ccsww.org, svdpseattle.org, byrdbarrplace.org, solid-ground.org, northwestharvest.org)
- Spokane/Eastern WA: Catholic Charities Eastern Washington (Family Services 509‑358‑4250; Emergency Assistance 509‑456‑2253); House of Charity 509‑624‑7821; YWCA Spokane DV 509‑326‑2255. (cceasternwa.org, housing.cceasternwa.org, ywcaspokane.org)
- Pierce County: NW Furniture Bank (253‑302‑3868) for furniture via referral; for rent/utility referrals call South Sound 211 via 211 or 253‑572‑4357. (piercecountywa.gov, uwpc.org)
- Snohomish County: YWCA SKS programs (search by county on ywcaworks.org) and KidVantage Shoreline hub (425‑209‑1136) for children’s items. (ywcaworks.org, kidvantagenw.org)
Step‑by‑Step: How to Call and What to Say
- Write a one‑sentence summary: “I’m a single mom in [city], I have [number] kids, and I’m [X days] behind on rent with a [14‑day notice].”
- Ask directly: “Do you have funds today for rent or utilities? If not, when should I call back?”
- If they can’t help, ask: “Which church or nonprofit is funding families this week in my ZIP?” (Get at least 2–3 referrals.)
- Keep a call log: date/time, person, what they said, next step.
Full Resource List (with links, phones, and addresses)
- Washington 211 — statewide referral line. Dial 211, text 211WAOD to 898211, or use the “Find Help” search on WA211.org. Washington 211 – Find Help. (wa211.org)
- United Way of King County – Rental Assistance. Up to $10,000 per household; ≤ 80% AMI; random selection; landlord must participate. United Way of King County Rent Help (how it works and apply). Phone: 206‑461‑3700 (customer service 206‑461‑5005). Address: 720 2nd Ave, Seattle, WA 98104. (uwkc.org)
- Salvation Army Northwest Division – local corps offer rent/utility help, food, case management (varies by site). Find your corps/center: Salvation Army Northwest Division locations. Examples: Seattle Temple Corps (9501 Greenwood Ave N, 206‑783‑1225); Tacoma Corps (1110 S Puget Sound Ave, 253‑572‑8452); Vancouver Corps (360‑892‑9050). Divisional HQ: 720 S Tobin St, Renton, 425‑255‑5974. (northwest.salvationarmy.org)
- Catholic Community Services of Western Washington – Emergency Assistance (rent, utilities, move‑in, bus tickets). Intake line (Seattle/South/East King) 253‑850‑2523; HQ 100 23rd Ave S, Seattle, WA 98144. CCSWW Emergency Assistance (intake windows). (ccsww.org)
- Catholic Charities Eastern Washington — Emergency Assistance 509‑456‑2253; Family Services Center 509‑358‑4250, 12 E 5th Ave, Spokane, WA 99202. Find Help – CCEW. (cceasternwa.org)
- St. Vincent de Paul of Seattle/King County — Helpline 206‑767‑6449 (M–F, 8 am–3 pm); main office 5950 4th Ave S, Seattle, WA 98108. SVDP Helpline and Online Assistance Request. (svdpseattle.org)
- Mary’s Place — Family Shelter Intake 206‑245‑1026; Admin 206‑621‑8474; Family Resource Center: 3190 S MLK Jr Way, Seattle, WA 98144. Mary’s Place Contact & Get Help. (marysplaceseattle.org)
- YWCA Spokane — 24/7 DV Helpline 509‑326‑2255 (text 509‑220‑3725); Main office 930 N Monroe St, Spokane, WA 99201. YWCA Spokane DV Services. (ywcaspokane.org)
- YWCA Seattle | King | Snohomish (Angeline’s Center & programs). Day Center & shelter screening: 206‑436‑8650. Angeline’s Center details. (find-human-services.kingcounty.gov)
- Hopelink — Rent prevention/move‑in assistance (randomized selection), energy assistance, and food markets in North/East King County. Admin 425‑869‑6000; Bellevue Market 425‑943‑7555; Redmond Center 8990 154th Ave NE, Redmond, WA 98052. Hopelink Financial Assistance (income table). (hopelink.org)
- Solid Ground — Tenant Services message line 206‑694‑6767 (M & Th 10:30 am–1:30 pm); Wallingford office 1501 N 45th St, Seattle. Tenant Services. (solid-ground.org)
- Byrd Barr Place — Housing & utility assistance; 206‑812‑4940; 722 18th Ave, Seattle, WA 98122. Byrd Barr Place Housing Assistance. (byrdbarrplace.org)
- Northwest Harvest — SODO Community Market (no‑cost grocery): 1915 4th Ave S; info 800‑722‑6924. SODO Market details & hours. (northwestharvest.org)
- WestSide Baby — White Center Hub: 10002 14th Ave SW, Seattle, 98146; main 206‑767‑1662. Visit WestSide Baby. (westsidebaby.org)
- KidVantage (formerly Eastside Baby Corner) — Issaquah Hub 425‑865‑0234 (1510 NW Maple St); Shoreline Hub 425‑209‑1136; Bremerton Hub 360‑616‑0235. KidVantage Locations. (kidvantagenw.org)
- Vine Maple Place — Single‑parent family stabilization; 425‑432‑2119; 21730 Dorre Don Way SE, Maple Valley. Get Help at Vine Maple Place. (vinemapleplace.org)
- Jewish Family Service — Project DVORA DV advocacy 206‑861‑3159; Financial Assistance online request opens Mondays 9 am–5 pm (when available). Address: 1601 16th Ave, Seattle, WA 98122. JFS Get Help. (jfsseattle.org)
- LCSNW – Refugees Northwest (SeaTac) — 206‑816‑3253, 4040 S 188th St, Suite 300, SeaTac. Refugees & Immigrant Services. (lcsnw.org)
- King County Bar Housing Justice Project — 206‑580‑0762 recorded info; clinics at Seattle & Kent courthouses. HJP program info. (find-human-services.kingcounty.gov)
- NW Justice Project CLEAR — Statewide civil legal help line 1‑888‑201‑1014. WA Attorney General tenant resource page. (atg.wa.gov)
Reality Checks, Timelines, and Tips
- Timelines are real. In King County, United Way rent help is random‑selection; you may wait weeks, or not be selected this cycle. Keep applying elsewhere and call back during next cycles. (uwkc.org)
- Many church funds are small but fast. Parish‑based grants often cover a piece of your bill; stack them (utility plus parish plus SVDP) and ask each provider to note your partials.
- Always tell the truth about income and household size; programs can verify.
- Keep a documents folder (paper or phone pics) ready for reuse.
About This Guide
Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team
This guide uses official sources from established nonprofits and statewide referral systems. It is produced under our Editorial Standards—primary sources, link testing, and change tracking—and is not a substitute for legal advice or government agency guidance. Last verified September 2025; next review April 2026. For corrections, email info@asinglemother.org. (wa211.org)
Disclaimer
- Program details, funding, intake hours, and amounts change quickly. Always verify on the official website or phone line before traveling or sharing personal information.
- This guide does not provide legal, medical, or case‑specific advice. For legal questions, contact the resources above. We aim to keep this site secure; if you encounter issues, please let us know at info@asinglemother.org.
By focusing on local charities, churches, community organizations, and legal helps—and by giving exact phones, addresses, and realistic timelines—this guide is designed to help Washington single moms take the next step today.
🏛️More Washington Resources for Single Mothers
Explore all assistance programs in 34 categories available in Washington
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