Housing and Essential Needs Referral Program

What is Housing and Essential Needs?

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Toy HouseThe Housing and Essential Needs Referral program provides access to essential-needs items and potential rental assistance. If you are not eligible for the Aged, Blind or Disabled cash assistance program and you are unable to work for at least 90 days due to a physical and/or mental incapacity, you may receive a referral to HEN.  

After you receive a HEN referral, you will need to contact your local HEN provider to see if the following services are available:

  • Personal health and hygiene items.
  • Cleaning products.
  • Transportation assistance.
  • Rent and utility assistance if you are homeless or at risk of becoming homeless.
  • Case management and support.

DSHS determines eligibility for the HEN referral program, which is administered by the Washington State Department of Commerce through a network of local service providers. HEN program services are subject to funding availability, which may be discontinued at any time. Please reach out to your local HEN provider for more information.

Who is eligible for a HEN referral?

People who live in Washington state and:

  • Are unable to work for at least 90 days due to a physical and/or mental incapacity.
  • Are at least 18 years old or, if under 18, legally emancipated or a member of a married couple.
  • Meet income and resource requirements.
  • Meet citizenship and immigration status requirements.

NOTE: People who receive Aged, Blind or Disabled cash assistance or Pregnant Women Assistance will also receive a referral to the HEN program.

What is the application process?

1. Submit an application using any of the following methods: 

2. Complete a financial interview in person or by phone at 877-501-2233 between 8 a.m. and 2 p.m., Monday – Friday, except holidays.

3. If you meet financial eligibility, you will be referred to a social worker to begin the process to determine your medical eligibility. 

NOTE: 
If you are not federally qualified for Modified Adjusted Gross Income medical programs, you may qualify for health care through the Medical Care Services program when eligible for the ABD or HEN Referral programs. Please refer to the Apple Health (Medicaid) Manual for MCS program summary information.
Are you homeless or about to become homeless? A Local Coordinated Entry program can help you think about next steps.

For more information about any of the programs DSHS offers, please call 877-501-2233 or visit your local Community Services Office from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except holidays.

References:

ESA/DSHS website Housing and Essential Needs Referral Program | DSHS (wa.gov)
ABD/HEN Publication 22-1727.pdf (wa.gov)