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Free Furniture and Household Items for Single Mothers in Washington

Free Furniture & Household Items for Single Mothers in Washington

Last updated: September 2025

This guide shows fast, real-world ways to get furniture, beds, and household items across Washington. It mixes government cash options, local furniture banks, church networks, and smart ways to grab free items in your neighborhood. Every section ends with a Plan B so you always have a next move.


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If You Only Do 3 Things – Emergency Actions to Take

  • Call Washington 211 right now: Ask for “furniture bank, voucher, or move‑in kits” plus any “utility shutoff help.” Save and use both options: dial 2‑1‑1 or 1‑877‑211‑9274. Use online search to filter by your ZIP and keywords like “furniture” and “beds.” Washington 211, Washington 211 Regions. (wa211.org)
  • Apply for Washington DSHS emergency cash today: Use Diversion Cash Assistance for one‑time essentials (up to $2,000 once every 12 months), or CEAP/AREN if you already get TANF or have an emergency. Apply by phone 1‑877‑501‑2233, online, or at your local office. DSHS Diversion Cash Assistance, Washington Connection. (dshs.wa.gov)
  • Get a furniture‑bank referral if you can: Ask any case manager, school McKinney‑Vento liaison, DV advocate, shelter, HEN provider, or SSVF worker to refer you. Start with NW Furniture Bank (Tacoma and Vancouver) and the Furniture Bank of Thurston County (Olympia). NW Furniture Bank, Thurston County Furniture Bank. (furniturebanks.org)

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Quick Help Box – Numbers and Links to Keep Handy

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How to Use Government Cash Programs to Cover Furniture and Move‑In Items

Start here because cash is flexible, fast when approved, and can pay for beds, cribs, cookware, and delivery fees.

Diversion Cash Assistance (DCA)

Most important first: Ask DSHS for DCA during your intake. Tell the worker what you need to stay housed or move in (beds, basic furniture, deposits, utilities). The maximum is up to $2,000 once in 12 months, and you must not go on TANF within a year or you may owe part back. Apply online, by phone at 1‑877‑501‑2233, or in person at a Community Services Office. DSHS DCA overview, Emergency resources page. (dshs.wa.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Try CEAP if you’re ineligible for other cash programs, or apply for TANF and request AREN for housing/utility emergencies (max $750 in 12 months, vendor paid). CEAP policy, AREN details. (dshs.wa.gov)

CEAP and AREN in Plain English

  • CEAP (Consolidated Emergency Assistance Program) helps for up to 30 consecutive days in a 12‑month period when you don’t qualify for other cash programs; funds can cover basic needs tied to your emergency. CEAP manual, CEAP policy page. (dshs.wa.gov)
  • AREN (Additional Requirements for Emergent Needs) is for current TANF/SFA families to prevent eviction or utility shutoff or to get into affordable housing; max $750 in 12 months and paid to landlord or utility. AREN overview, AREN clarifying info and cap. (dshs.wa.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your DSHS worker to check Disaster Cash Assistance Program (DCAP) if you’re in a qualifying Governor‑declared emergency window, or reapply for DCA after 12 months. DCAP policy, DCA overview. (dshs.wa.gov)

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Furniture Banks, Vouchers, and Local Nonprofits

These are reliable ways to furnish a whole home for little or nothing. Many require a referral.

Northwest Furniture Bank (Pierce & SW WA)

Most important first: Get a referral from an approved partner (shelter, housing provider, school liaison, or case manager). Appointments are then scheduled to pick out furniture. NW Furniture Bank directory page, Tacoma Housing Authority resource notes. (furniturebanks.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask Associated Ministries or your housing provider to help with a referral, or use St. Vincent de Paul vouchers while you wait for an appointment. Associated Ministries CRCC, SVDP Seattle – assistance notes. (tacomahousing.org)

Furniture Bank of Thurston County (Olympia)

Most important first: Show up during open hours (first and third Saturdays, 9:00 a.m.–noon). Items are first‑come, first‑served; volunteers help load. Olympia CRC – Furniture Bank page, WA 211 listing with phone 360‑705‑1756. (olympiacrc.com)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Try City Gates Ministries furniture hotline for Thurston County move‑ins, or check Love INC church networks in nearby counties. City Gates Ministries furniture, Love INC Yakima – furniture impact. (search.wa211.org)

St. Vincent de Paul (SVDP) – Vouchers and Beds

Most important first: Call the SVDP Helpline in your county. In King County, call 206‑767‑6449. Ask for a thrift voucher for household goods and whether your parish area has bed assistance. SVDP Seattle – Get Help, King County human‑services listing – vouchers/beds. (find-human-services.kingcounty.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask a St. Vincent conference to refer you to NW Furniture Bank or a partner church, or call Washington 211 to find another parish‑based bed program. SVDP parish example pages, Washington 211. (stmatthewseattle.org)

Faith‑Based Networks (Love INC and others)

Most important first: Call your local Love INC “Connection Center.” Many chapters run furniture ministries and can arrange pickup/delivery when you’re moving from shelter to housing. Love INC Yakima – request help, Love INC Skagit – furniture history. (loveincyakima.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Call Washington 211 and ask for “church‑based furniture ministries” or parish conferences near you; ask your case manager to send a referral where required. WA 211 contact, WA 211 regions map. (wa211.org)

Domestic Violence & Family Shelters – “Make‑a‑Home” and Move‑In Kits

Most important first: If you’re a survivor, ask your advocate for “move‑in furniture or household kits.” Programs shift, but warm hand‑offs are common.

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your advocate to request SVDP vouchers or an NW Furniture Bank referral. If rent help is needed, ask about the HEN program and Coordinated Entry for housing. SVDP – King County vouchers, HEN referral basics. (find-human-services.kingcounty.gov)

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Beds, Cribs, and Baby Gear: Where to Get Them Fast

Beds for Kids (ages 3–17)

Most important first: Apply to Sleep in Heavenly Peace (SHP) if there’s a local chapter that serves your area. They build and deliver beds with new mattresses and bedding for kids. Chapters exist in Spokane, Seattle‑North, and Vancouver, with more forming. SHP – Spokane, SHP – Seattle North. (shpbeds.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask SVDP if your area provides beds, or request an NW Furniture Bank referral that includes beds for kids. SVDP King County – beds availability, NW Furniture Bank. (find-human-services.kingcounty.gov)

Cribs and Infant Safe Sleep

Most important first: Newborns should sleep alone, on their backs, in a safe crib or play yard. Ask your nurse, home visitor, DCYF social worker, or local health department for safe‑sleep cribs/pack‑n‑plays and education. DCYF Safe Sleep, DCYF infant safety purchasing guidance. (dcyf.wa.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask KidVantage (formerly Eastside Baby Corner) or WestSide Baby for infant gear through a partner agency (your case manager must order). KidVantage provider partners, WestSide Baby donate items update. (kidvantagenw.org)

Kids’ Gear and Essentials

Most important first: Request items through your case manager or school program.

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your clinic’s social worker or Kids Plus Public Health program to connect you with a partner agency that can order gear. King County Kids Plus, Washington 211. (kingcounty.gov)

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Furniture and Free Goods from Neighbors: Apps and Groups

Where to Search Daily

Most important first: Check these apps each morning and set alerts with keywords like “bed,” “crib,” “dresser,” “sofa,” and your ZIP.

What to do if this doesn’t work: Set alerts in multiple apps (e.g., “bed frame,” “twin mattress”) and ask a friend to message on your behalf during work hours. Consider “Freebie Alerts” aggregators too. Trash Nothing app, Freebie Alerts app example. (apps.apple.com)

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How to Stop Utility Shutoff in Washington Today

Most important first: Call your utility before the due date and ask for a payment plan and referrals for energy assistance.

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask DSHS about AREN for utility emergencies (TANF/SFA families, up to $750 in 12 months, vendor paid), or request DCA for one‑time help. AREN policy, DCA overview. (dshs.wa.gov)

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The HEN Program: What It Can and Can’t Cover

Most important first: If you are unable to work for at least 90 days and meet income limits, ask DSHS for a HEN referral. A HEN provider may help with limited essential needs (hygiene/transportation) and, when funded, rent and utility help. DSHS HEN referral program, Commerce HEN program overview. (dshs.wa.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Use DCA for move‑in essentials, keep your name on HEN lists, and ask 211 for other rent programs in your county. DSHS DCA, Washington 211. (dshs.wa.gov)

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Program Snapshots (At‑a‑Glance)

Program Who it helps What you can get How to apply
DSHS DCA Families meeting TANF rules, not on TANF now Up to $2,000 once in 12 months for urgent needs Online, phone 1‑877‑501‑2233, or CSO
AREN TANF/SFA households Up to $750/12 months for housing/utility emergencies Ask your TANF worker
CEAP Families/pregnant in emergency, not eligible for other cash One‑time cash up to 30 days Online/phone/in person
NW Furniture Bank Households moving from crisis to housing (referral required) Whole‑home furniture selection; delivery available Referral by partner agency
Sleep in Heavenly Peace Kids 3–17 without a bed Bed + mattress + bedding Apply to local chapter

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Required Documents – Quick Checklist You Can Screenshot

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Timelines and What to Expect

Step Typical wait What helps speed it up
DCA application & interview 7–15 business days; crises faster Upload documents with application; answer phone for interview windows
HEN contact after referral Varies by county; King County has an interest list Keep voicemail clear; call back window times; ask about essential‑needs pickup
NW Furniture Bank appointment 1–3 weeks typical (longer in peak seasons) Lock in referral; be flexible on appointment times; ask about will‑call

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Reality Check – Funding and Inventory

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Resources by Region (Where to Start Near You)

Seattle/King County

Start with SVDP Helpline (206‑767‑6449) for vouchers and possible beds, and ask your shelter/school liaison for an NW Furniture Bank referral if you’re moving in. SVDP Get Help, NW Furniture Bank directory. (find-human-services.kingcounty.gov)

Check Seattle’s Utility Discount Program and Emergency Assistance to free up cash for furnishings while staying current on bills. Utility Discount Program, Emergency Assistance Program. (citylink.seattle.gov)

Use SHP Seattle North for kids’ beds, and ask Solid Ground about move‑in help via Coordinated Entry (RAP). SHP Seattle North, Solid Ground – housing resources. (shpbeds.org)

Pierce/Tacoma

Ask your case manager (or Associated Ministries CRCC) for a NW Furniture Bank referral and delivery options. Associated Ministries CRCC, NW Furniture Bank (Tacoma). (tacomahousing.org)

Call Washington 211 South Sound (800‑572‑4357) to find parish voucher programs and Goodwill voucher partners. WA 211 – South Sound region, WA 211 home. (wa211.org)

Thurston/Olympia

Go to the Furniture Bank of Thurston County on the 1st/3rd Saturdays (9–noon) and ask about delivery. Olympia CRC Furniture Bank, Phone and hours listing. (olympiacrc.com)

If you’re moving in from shelter, call City Gates Ministries for mattresses/household items. City Gates Ministries furniture, Washington 211 search. (search.wa211.org)

Snohomish/Everett

Use KidVantage (via partner) for kids’ gear and check parish‑based SVDP for household vouchers in your parish area. KidVantage partners, WA 211. (kidvantagenw.org)

If you’re a Veteran family, call SSVF providers in Snohomish/King (YWCA SSVF). YWCA SSVF (Everett/Renton), Washington 211. (ywcaworks.org)

Kitsap Peninsula

Check KidVantage West Sound (Bremerton hub) through a partner for kids’ essentials; shop Habitat ReStore for low‑cost furniture if free options are thin. KidVantage locations, Kitsap Habitat Store. (wagives.org)

Call Washington 211 Peninsula Region (866‑736‑9634) for church‑based furniture help and pickup events. WA 211 Peninsula region, WA 211 contact. (wa211.org)

Spokane & Eastern Washington

For kids’ beds, apply to SHP Spokane; for Veteran families, call Goodwill SSVF (housing help can cover deposits/fees). SHP Spokane, Goodwill SSVF – Spokane contact. (shpbeds.org)

Use Washington 211 to find SVDP and church‑run furniture rooms east of the Cascades. WA 211, Contact WA 211. (wa211.org)

Yakima & Tri‑Cities

Call Love INC Yakima (509‑453‑0214) for furniture/household referrals and delivery options; ask about Tuesday night classes if you want ongoing support. Love INC Yakima – request help, Impact update (furniture given). (loveincyakima.org)

If you’re a Veteran family, ask for SSVF screening; some costs to get housed can be covered. CCSWW SSVF overview, HUD‑VASH background (archived 2025 update). (ccsww.org)

Clark County/Vancouver

Ask your case manager for NW Furniture Bank – Vancouver referral; 211Info lists fee details and delivery area. NWFB Vancouver listing, NWFB Vancouver contact (MapQuest). (211info.org)

Use SHP Vancouver for kids’ beds and 211 for parish vouchers. SHP Vancouver, WA 211 Southwest region (Spanish page example). (shpbeds.org)

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Common Mistakes to Avoid

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Quick Reference Cheat Sheet

Need First call/action Plan B
Whole home furniture Ask case manager for NW Furniture Bank referral SVDP thrift vouchers + Buy Nothing alert posts
Kid’s bed Apply to SHP chapter Ask parish SVDP for beds or NWFB appointment
Crib/infant sleep Ask clinic/DCYF for safe‑sleep crib/pack‑n‑play KidVantage or WestSide Baby via partner
One‑time cash for essentials Apply for DCA CEAP or AREN via TANF
Utility shutoff Ask for utility payment plan + UDP/EAP or LIHEAP Ask DSHS for AREN or DCA

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Application Tips That Work

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Diverse Communities – Targeted Pointers

LGBTQ+ single mothers: Ask for privacy and name/pronoun respect during referrals and deliveries. In King County, LGBTQ+‑competent DV resources include Gender Justice League Safe House; you can still access SVDP vouchers and NW Furniture Bank with agency referral. King County DV org list, NW Furniture Bank directory. (kingcounty.gov)

Single mothers with disabilities or disabled children: Tell the furniture bank up front if you need ground‑floor delivery or light assembly. Ask DSHS for accommodations and large‑print letters; LIHEAP can sometimes address unsafe heaters. DSHS Emergency resources, LIHEAP WA. (dshs.wa.gov)

Veteran single mothers: Request SSVF screening; these programs can fund move‑in fees and basic furnishings as part of a housing plan. Also ask VA social work about HUD‑VASH connections and household setup help. CCSWW SSVF, HUD‑VASH archived update. (ccsww.org)

Immigrant/refugee single moms: Your resettlement agency may furnish your unit and provide starter kits. Ask World Relief Western WA, IRC Seattle, JFS, or LCSNW about “welcome kits” and household baskets. World Relief Western WA, IRC Seattle – in‑kind. (worldrelief.org)

Tribal‑specific resources: If you’re a Native veteran or family, ask the tribe about Tribal HUD‑VASH and local housing supports; some can help with move‑in essentials. HUD news – Tribal HUD‑VASH funds notice, Washington 211. (hud.gov)

Rural single moms: Use your 211 regional page to find church‑based furniture ministries and set pickup windows that work with limited transit. WA 211 Peninsula region, WA 211 Southwest (Spanish example). (wa211.org)

Single fathers: The same programs cover you. Tell the intake worker you’re the custodial parent seeking beds and essentials for your children. DCA, SHP chapters. (dshs.wa.gov)

Language access: Ask for an interpreter at every step. DSHS, 211, and Seattle utility programs offer language lines; request large‑print or TTY as needed. Washington 211 contact, UDP contact. (wa211.org)

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“What If My Application Gets Denied?”

  • For DCA/CEAP/AREN: Ask for the specific reason in writing and request a case conference. You can reapply when you can fix the gap (missing document, income change, or different emergency). DSHS Emergency resources, Washington Connection. (dshs.wa.gov)
  • For furniture banks: Ask your case manager to resend the referral and note any safety or medical needs; get on cancellation lists. Look for parish vouchers and Buy Nothing “ISOs” meanwhile. NW Furniture Bank, Buy Nothing app. (furniturebanks.org)
  • For utility help: Ask for a longer payment plan, check LIHEAP again next month, and apply for UDP/EAP or a similar discount if in a different city. LIHEAP WA, UDP/EAP. (commerce.wa.gov)

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Tables You Can Use Quickly

Key Websites and Phones

Program How to reach What to say
DSHS Emergency Cash Phone 1‑877‑501‑2233; Apply online “I need DCA/CEAP/AREN to cover beds and basic household items for move‑in.” (washingtonconnection.org)
Washington 211 Dial 2‑1‑1 or 1‑877‑211‑9274; Search online “Furniture bank, bed programs, parish vouchers near [ZIP].” (wa211.org)
NW Furniture Bank Tacoma 253‑302‑3868; Info “I have a referral; need appointment and delivery quote.” (furniturebanks.org)

Free/Low‑Cost Sources by Item

Item Go here first Plan B
Beds (kids) SHP chapter SVDP KC + Buy Nothing (shpbeds.org)
Crib/pack‑n‑play DCYF Safe Sleep KidVantage partners + WestSide Baby (dcyf.wa.gov)
Whole‑home basics NW Furniture Bank Furniture Bank – Thurston + SVDP (furniturebanks.org)

Typical Fees and Waits (Confirm before you go)

Service Possible fee Wait
NWFB selection (Vancouver) 100clientfee;delivery100 client fee; delivery 150 1–3 weeks
Thurston Furniture Bank Free; donations welcome Open 1st/3rd Sat; delivery may take up to a month

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FAQs

  • How fast can DCA help with a bed purchase?
    If documents are ready, some families get decisions in 7–15 business days. Ask for an urgent review if there’s a court date, move‑in deadline, or medical need. DSHS emergency resources, Washington Connection. (dshs.wa.gov)
  • Do furniture banks provide mattresses?
    Many do for kids and adults, but inventory changes daily. Vancouver’s NWFB lists mattresses sold at a client rate; always confirm. NWFB Vancouver listing, NWFB directory page. (211info.org)
  • Can I get help if I’m undocumented?
    Yes for some programs. CEAP doesn’t require citizenship; SVDP and many churches help regardless of status. Ask 211 for local options. CEAP policy note, WA 211. (dshs.wa.gov)
  • What about utilities in Seattle while I’m behind?
    Apply for UDP for ongoing discounts and EAP for one‑time pledges; you can also set a payment plan. UDP, EAP. (citylink.seattle.gov)
  • Who can refer me to NW Furniture Bank?
    Shelters, housing providers, school McKinney‑Vento staff, and many nonprofits. Ask your case manager or 211 for a partner list. NWFB directory, WA 211. (furniturebanks.org)
  • Does HEN pay for furniture?
    HEN focuses on rent, utilities, and essential needs like hygiene/transportation. Some providers may help with move‑in costs; ask your local HEN provider. Commerce HEN overview, DSHS HEN referral. (commerce.wa.gov)
  • How do I get a crib in a hurry?
    Ask your hospital or clinic social worker for safe‑sleep crib vouchers or a partner referral; some areas receive Cribs for Kids kits. DCYF safe sleep, Cribs for Kids grants. (dcyf.wa.gov)
  • Are there free kids’ clothes and car seats?
    Yes, via partner referrals to KidVantage and WestSide Baby (availability varies). KidVantage providers, WestSide Baby. (kidvantagenw.org)
  • I’m a Veteran and just got a lease—who can help with furnishings?
    Ask SSVF to build a housing stability plan; they can often fund basic setup. CCSWW SSVF, YWCA SSVF. (ccsww.org)
  • Is there help in Spanish?
    Sí. 211 tiene página y atención en español; Seattle UDP tiene recursos multilingües. Pida intérprete a DSHS y 211. WA 211 Español, UDP info. (wa211.org)

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Troubleshooting – If You Still Can’t Find Furniture

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Spanish Summary / Resumen en Español

Esta guía le enseña cómo conseguir muebles gratis o de bajo costo en Washington. Empiece con 211 (marque 2‑1‑1 o 1‑877‑211‑9274) para pedir “bancos de muebles, vales para artículos del hogar y ayuda con servicios públicos.” Solicite DCA de DSHS (hasta $2,000 una vez cada 12 meses) para comprar camas, muebles básicos y artículos de cocina. Washington 211, DSHS DCA. (wa211.org)

Pida a su trabajadora social una referencia a NW Furniture Bank (Tacoma/Vancouver) o vaya al Furniture Bank de Thurston County (1º y 3º sábados). Para camas infantiles, aplique a Sleep in Heavenly Peace; para cunas, pregunte a DCYF o su clínica por el programa de sueño seguro. NWFB, SHP Seattle North. (furniturebanks.org)

Si vive en Seattle, solicite el Utility Discount Program y Emergency Assistance para reducir cuentas y liberar dinero para muebles. Esta traducción se produjo con herramientas de IA; confirme detalles por teléfono antes de aplicar. UDP Seattle, EAP Seattle. (citylink.seattle.gov)

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About This Guide

Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team.

This guide uses official sources including:

Last verified September 2025, next review April January 2026.

Please note that despite our careful verification process, errors may still occur – email info@asinglemother.org with corrections and we respond within 72 hours.

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Disclaimer

This guide is for general information. Benefits, funding, eligibility, hours, fees, and inventory change often and vary by county. Always call to confirm current availability before applying or traveling. For emergencies, dial 9‑1‑1 or contact local crisis lines.

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