Early May 2026 news
CONTENTS: Our May edition starts off with Political news and events with subcategories for local and federal political issues and opportunities. The Events section is divided into social justice oriented events; youth and family oriented events; health and safety events and services; transportation; immigration & cultural events and resources; other events, services and resources; and human services events. Then come employment, asks and opportunities, followed by a section for service providers with a section related to Housing and Homelessness and one for other stuff. We finish off with a few articles. Our attachments include an Ask from Move-in Ministries and a notice from Hopelink’s Redmond Market. Happy May!
Political news and advocacy opportunities
Local
Join the effort to Save Issaquah Light Rail on May 7
Issaquah Light Rail Posted on April 30, 2026
Sound Transit will be revealing their proposal which could delay or effectively cut Issaquah’s planned light rail station on May 7, at the Sound Transit Executive Board meeting. The entire board is expected to vote on the proposal at their May 28 meeting. There is a real risk that investments promised to Issaquah will not be built, and local tax dollars will instead be diverted outside of East King County.
The Sound Transit Board wants to hear from you before making this important decision. Please come in person to the May 7 Sound Transit Executive Committee meeting and the May 28 regular board meeting. Can't make the meetings? Write an email to the Sound Transit Board telling them to Save Issaquah Light Rail. Tips on public comments and emails to Sound Transit can be found here.
Group Travel
Meet us at City Hall (130 E Sunset Way) by the eagle statue at 9 a.m. to ride the ST 554 bus to the Sound Transit meeting in Seattle. We will arrive by 10 a.m. to sign up for public comment and get a seat. Be sure to wear purple to show your support for Issaquah Light Rail!
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Federal
The House approved an 18-month extension of warrantless surveillance of Americans — no warrant requirement, no reforms, no accountability. Under Section 702 of FISA, the U.S. government can collect your emails, your texts, your calls — without ever getting a warrant — simply because you were in contact with someone overseas. If you are concerned, contact your Senator this week You can call202-953-1892 to be connected to your lawmakers. You can press star to move from call to call, or if there’s no answer. Please make all the calls. When you’re connected to an office or an answering machine, you can say:
"I’m calling as a constituent to urge you to oppose any bill to reauthorize FISA spying until the data broker loophole is closed."
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Social Security (from Hollywood Democrats)
“Right now, income above a certain level isn’t subject to Social Security taxes, and momentum is growing to lift or eliminate that cap so high earners contribute their fair share. That prospect directly threatens the ultra-rich, whose incomes have surged far beyond the taxable limit.
So instead of defending the current system honestly, they’re muddying the waters with a different kind of “cap” --one that sounds similar but does the opposite. Their proposal, branded as a “six figure limit,” would cap benefits at $50,000 per person or $100,000 per couple. It’s a strategic misdirection: shift the conversation away from taxing high incomes and toward cutting what retirees receive.
The design of this benefit cap is especially revealing. While it might affect relatively few people at first, it is not structured to keep up with inflation. Over time, that means it would quietly drag more and more retirees into its limits, steadily shrinking the real value of Social Security. What begins as a targeted change becomes, over the years, a broad erosion -- transforming a system tied to earned benefits into something closer to a flat, subsistence-level payment.
… Supporters of the plan frame it as “fairness,” but the long-term math tells a different story.
As Social Security Works President Nancy Altman has pointed out, younger workers would bear the brunt as the cap gradually expands downward in real terms. Each year, inflation would pull more retirees into lower benefit levels, weakening the program generation by generation.
Meanwhile, the same voices pushing this proposal often stay silent on the simplest, most direct fix: require the highest earners to contribute on all of their income like everyone else does. That approach would strengthen Social Security’s finances without cutting benefits -- yet it’s precisely what the ultra-rich are trying to avoid.
What a clever deflection this “six-figure limit” is, really! By introducing a misleading “cap” on benefits, billionaires can present themselves as reformers while protecting their own tax advantages. The result would be a slow-motion rollback of one of the most successful and widely supported programs in American history.
Social Security is an earned benefit, funded by workers over a lifetime.”
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House Farm Bill Fails to Restore SNAP Cuts
The House Farm Bill is expected to get a vote in the U.S. House of Representatives this week, and we need to urge our Representatives to vote NO!
The Farm Bill, which funds many things including food assistance, fails to restore $187 billion cut from Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) last year under the budget reconciliation law, HR1.
Millions of people have already lost essential SNAP benefits because of this cut, and the Farm Bill must restore essential food access for people living on low incomes. House Members must vote NO on the bill and let the Senate know that advancing a Farm Bill without SNAP investments is unacceptable.
Take action today with our allies at theFood Research and Action Center (FRAC): Call your House Membersand urge them to vote no on the Farm Bill. Dial (202) 22 plus the five-digit number listed in this directory (Click here to find out who represents you). Your message can be quick - tell them who you are, that you are a constituent in their district, why you care about SNAP, and urge them to vote no on the Farm Bill unless it fully restores SNAP. Or Send an email to your House Members urging them to vote no on the Farm Bill.
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Join Rev. Dr. Liz Theoharis and Unitarian Universalists For Social Justice for a discussion on how to meet this moment with courage, solidarity, and strategic action. The event will take place Tuesday, May 5th @ 5pm PT. Learn more and register at https://uusj.salsalabs.org/revliz/index.html?mc_cid=ea5cf80965&mc_eid=fc7efb8958&mc_cid=6b999b858a&mc_eid=fc4b8a82b1
Events
Social justice oriented events
Coalition to End Gender Based Violence is hosting Celebration for Change on May 7 at 5:30 pm – 8:00 pm at Mount Baker Community Club (2811 Mt Rainier Dr S, Seattle, Washington 98144) to hear about the good stuff, the challenging stuff, and the work ahead for all of us. Register at https://endgv.org/event/celebration-for-change-2026/?emci=5404447e-983d-f111-8ef2-000d3a14b640&emdi=211cca62-0e44-f111-8ef2-000d3a14b640&ceid=24635579
The 2nd Annual “Immigrant” Justice Prayer Walk is scheduled for May 16, 2026, at 12 PM, gathering at St. Luke’s Episcopal Church (5710 22nd Ave NW, Seattle) and proceeding to Daybreak Star Cultural Center. This event, organized by the All My Relations Coalition, focuses on unity, solidarity with immigrant communities, and advocacy against separation and detention.
Disability Empowerment Center: Upcoming events
May Virtual Peer Group May 12, 2026 1:00 PM 2:30 PM (sign up for link)
Come chat about traveling with a disability, including multiple modes of transportation. Learn how you can advocate for yourself while you travel.
May Eastside Peer Group May 26, 2026 2-4 PM at 16305 NE 87th St., Suite 113 in the Together Center in Redmond. Join us in May to talk about executive functioning and how to “get unstuck.” We’ll share strategies for how to motivate ourselves and overcome physical and mental barriers.
SKCCH Annual Membership Meeting, Thursday, May 21, 8:30-11 a.m. at El Centro de la Raza, Centilia Cultural Center(1660 S Roberto Maestas Festival St) Our agenda features Heidi Groover, a housing reporter for The Seattle Times, in conversation about the housing affordability crisis. We will look at the root causes of this crisis with a national, state, and local lens, and get a clearer picture of contributing factors so we can move forward with good information and a shared understanding. Register at https://homelessinfo.secure.nonprofitsoapbox.com/2026-annual-meeting?emci=5404447e-983d-f111-8ef2-000d3a14b640&emdi=211cca62-0e44-f111-8ef2-000d3a14b640&ceid=24635579
SoundGenerations Presents: Annual Positive Aging Awards Luncheon. With live music, great food, a resource fair , and KOMO 4 news anchor, Tyrah Majors as our host it will be a fun-filled and memorable event that inspires all. Join us at Hyatt at Olive 8 on May 28th starting at 11:00 am. Register at https://fundraise.givesmart.com/form/qy4StQ?emci=5404447e-983d-f111-8ef2-000d3a14b640&emdi=211cca62-0e44-f111-8ef2-000d3a14b640&ceid=24635579&vid=1q72qf
Youth &Family oriented events
PEPS: Free Workshops Learning Together Virtual Workshops
Empty Nesting - Transitioning with Grace (parents of 17 to 21 year old kids) (April 30, 6 pm)
When to Worry: A Parent’s Guide to Adolescent Nutrition and Health (May 14, 12 pm).
KinderingFREE Parent Education Online
Hitting, Biting and Tantrums…Oh My! Understanding and Reframing Challenging Behaviors in Young Children – Part 1 Tuesday, May 5, 2026, from 12:00 – 1:00pm OR 6:00-7:30pm This class will focus on big picture concepts that will help parents and caregivers to understand the “why’s” behind children’s challenging behaviors. We will explore how to understand and identify adult triggers and internal beliefs and how they impact caregiving. We will also discuss how the brain/body connection, sensory processing, and co-regulation impact behavior.
Hitting, Biting and Tantrums…Oh My! Understanding and Reframing Challenging Behaviors in Young Children: Strategies – Part 2 Tuesday, May 12, 2026, from 12:00-1:00pm OR 6:00-7:30pm This class will briefly review key concepts from part one to help parents and caregivers to understand the “why’s” behind children’s challenging behaviors. We will then explore brain-based strategies to help children (and adults!) get to a state of calm and connection to manage a variety of challenging behaviors.
WA State DHS EBT BenefitsSummer EBT Food Program for ChildrenSUN Bucks in Washington: For Issaquah School District Families: Some students will get SUN Bucks automatically. This may happen if your child already qualifies for free or reduced-price meals at school, or if your family receives benefits such as SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) or TANF (Temporary Assistance for Needy Families). Other families can still qualify by filling out a free or reduced-price meal application and meeting income guidelines. If you have questions about SUN Bucks or your benefits, you can call the SUN Bucks Contact Center at 833-543-3230. For help with eligibility or applying, please contact Issaquah School District Food Services at 425-837-5060 or email Amie Garcia.
Friends of Youth Programs with current openings!
DBT Skills Classes Open Now! Learn concrete skills to repair relationships, feel happier and be more prepared to cope with life’s ups and downs. One-hour initial screening and orientation meeting Weekly 1.5 hour IN-PERSON skills classes with trained DBT clinicians Open Enrollment 24 week/6 months In-person classes for adolescents ages 14-17 Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) is an evidenced based treatment proven to be extremely effective for individuals who experience depression, anxiety, chronic trouble with relationships, self-harm, suicidality and substance abuse. Our program is open to individuals who can attend 24 weeks of skills classes which can be combined with our individual DBT therapy services for additional support. More information about DBT HERE
substance use disorder group for teens Wednesdays! 4pm to 5:30pm Issaquah office (414 Front Street North) Do you feel like your life might be out of control or do you just need supportive people around you? Learn new skills with other teens in a fun, confidential, and safe environment at our SUD group on Wednesdays. Feel free to contact Friends of Youth to sign up clientservices@friendsofyouth.org or call 425-392-6367
CRAFT Parenting Group 2nd & 4th Thursdays You are invited to a biweekly harm reduction group for parents and caregivers that target substance using behaviors in their children of all ages. Each session will include discussion of a skill you can apply to your relationship with your child and build community in a shared experience.
Health & safety oriented events & services
Solid Ground: LEARN ABOUT YOUR MEDICARE OPTIONS Wed, May 6, 2026, 5-8pm Online In this FREE webinar, you’ll learn about all parts of Medicare so you can make an informed decision about your Medicare choices. We’ll discuss… - Medicare A, B, C, and D, Enrollment, Medicare benefits and options, Medigaps (supplemental plans) and Medicare Advantage plans., Help paying for Medicare, Medicare fraud. Hosted by Solid Ground, this virtual event will be presented by Statewide Health Insurance Benefits Advisors (SHIBA) – Solid Ground volunteers, Lee. SHIBA provides free, unbiased, and confidential assistance with Medicare health care choices. Solid Ground is your local SHIBA sponsor. For additional upcoming dates, go to Medicare Workshops & Webinars. TO REGISTER: Go to Welcome to icare Webinar.
KCLS: Tuberculosis Education Thursday, May 7, 2026 2:00PM – 3:30PM Renton Highlands Tuberculosis Program presented by King County. These presentations focus on raising awareness about TB, including prevention practices, recognizing symptoms, and the importance of routine wellness visits with primary care providers. The goal is to support community health while empowering learners with practical, easy-to-understand information. The education would be provided in a presentation format using slides. The content is delivered using simple English, making it accessible and a helpful opportunity for English learners to practice listening and comprehension skills in a real-world health topic.
KCLS:Washington Health Outreach for Free and Low-Cost Veterinary Care May 9, 2026 11:00am–2:00pm View all dates - RentonGet free and low-cost veterinary care for community members in need. Washington Health Outreach will be set up in the parking lot of the library. First come, first served. Spots fill up quickly, so arrive early. Visit the website for a full schedule and list of available services.
KCLS: 聯邦醫療補助更新與申請/ Health Insurance DIY : Explore the ACA Marketplace Yourself May 20, 2026 Available in English and Chinese. An educational overview of using the ACA Marketplace to find, compare, and understand health insurance options without relying on others. A CISC representative will provide free, unbiased updates to the Affordable Care Act and information about benefits. No appointment necessary. First come, first served. This is a hybrid event. Please register to attend online. If you have questions, call CISC: 206.823.7842
King County: Organizations that Offer Low Cost or Free Bike Helmets Affordable bike helmets are available for King County residents. Many local organizations provide free or low-cost helmets to the community in over a dozen locations. If you or someone you know are interested in getting a free or low-cost bicycle helmet, visit our online listing of places you can go. More information on bike safety available HERE
WA State Dept of Health 20% Coupons for LifejacketsPlanning on having fun on the water this summer?! Be ready by already having a life jacket for everyone in your party! Get 20% off a lifejacket for everyone at participating stores
CISC: Health & Resource Fair SAVE THE DATE Wednesday, June 24, 2026 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM Join us this summer for the CISC Annual Health and Resource Fair, Theme: Aging Well with Artificial Intelligence. This event will be held at the North Bellevue Community Center. Details coming soon!
PSE: Life support & medical emergencies Protections During Power Outages When a customer account is approved for Life Support status, a flag is placed on the account so field personnel know that critical medical equipment is in use at the location. Customers with Life Support status also receive advanced notice for scheduled outages, including Public Safety Power Shutoffs, when possible, and 48 hours' notice before disconnection of service due to failure to pay. PSE may communicate Life Support status to local emergency responders such as fire departments, emergency medical services personnel, or police. Learn how to register and eligibility at the link above.
WDVA: Veteran Tobacco and Nicotine Use Webinars Are you a friend, family member, or professional working with Veterans?Join an upcoming free virtual workshop to learn how to start conversations with Veterans about quitting tobacco and nicotine. This training will be done virtually through our Veterans Training Support Center and presented by Josie Tracy, Ph.D., a clinical psychologist who has worked in the field of substance use disorder treatment and harm reduction for over 13 years, primarily in VA hospital settings. To register for this training or future training, visit HEREDates/Times: Wednesday, April 28, 12:00 - 1:30 pm, Tuesday, May 12, 3:00 - 4:30 pm, Thursday, May 21, 10:00 - 11:30 pm, Monday, June 1, 12:00 - 1:30 pm, Tuesday, June 9, 3:00 - 4:30 pm
WA Poison Center: PSA Rising Teen Overdoses from Diphenhydramine (Brand name Benadryl)Washington Poison Center has identified a concerning and sustained increase in overdoses among youth involving diphenhydramine, a common over-the-counter medication (brand name BenadrylTM). This trend is linked to both intentional self-harm and substance misuse. Coordinated action across healthcare providers, schools, and community organizations is essential to reduce harm and prevent further increases. Find more information at the link above.
Transportation
EERC May meeting
May 26th from 1:00pm-2:30pm, IN PERSON at Together Center, 16305 NE 87th St Suite 110, Redmond, WA 98052. Topics of discussion: Future of EERC, FY27 Workplan collaboration, networking. Light snacks will be provided. A finalized agenda and slide deck will be sent closer to the meeting date.
Contact Erin Funk, Eastside Mobility Coordinator (425) 495-3191 EFunk@hopelink.org for more information.
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Save Issaquah Light Rail on May 7
Issaquah Light RailPosted on April 30, 2026
Sound Transit will be revealing their proposal which could delay or effectively cut Issaquah’s planned light rail station on May 7, at the Sound Transit Executive Board meeting. The entire board is expected to vote on the proposal at their May 28 meeting. There is a real risk that investments promised to Issaquah will not be built, and local tax dollars will instead be diverted outside of East King County.
The Sound Transit Board wants to hear from you before making this important decision. Please come in person to the May 7 Sound Transit Executive Committee meeting and the May 28 regular board meeting. Can't make the meetings? Write an email to the Sound Transit Board telling them to Save Issaquah Light Rail. Tips on public comments and emails to Sound Transit can be found here.
Group Travel
Meet us at City Hall (130 E Sunset Way) by the eagle statue at 9 a.m. to ride the ST 554 bus to the Sound Transit meeting in Seattle. We will arrive by 10 a.m. to sign up for public comment and get a seat. Be sure to wear purple to show your support for Issaquah Light Rail!
Immigration & cultural events and resources
WAISN: Know Your Rights Next: May 13, 2026 Full Schedule HEREJoin this virtual workshop to learn how to support yourself and your community during encounters with immigration enforcement agents. This Know Your Rights training covers what to do if Immigration and Customs Enforcement comes to your home or workplace, how to identify valid warrants, and how to assert your rights safely.
The Circle: Asian American and Pacific Islander Celebration (AAPI) May 17, 2026 Come and join us to celebrate the Asian American & Pacific Islander Community. Enjoy hands-on family activities from the different AAPI cultures represented in our community, and try some delicious snacks. Don't miss it! Please note that a ticket is required for each attendee. All tickets are free, and everyone is welcome. While there is a limit of 5 tickets per order, there is no limit on the number of orders per family.
WA Immigrant Information Information CenterThe Washington Immigrant Information Center’s mission is to provide clear, reliable, and culturally relevant information to immigrant and refugee communities across Washington State. Through a multilingual digital platform and direct communication with staff, the program offers updated, verified, and relevant information for immigrant and refugee communities to understand rights, protect data, and make informed decisions about the safety and well-being of themselves and their families. Chat with a real person to get free, confidential help in your language about data privacy, healthcare, and policy in Washington. Call us at +1 (206) 672-4226, or visit us online.
Other events, services and resources
The Sohpia Way: Summer Community Brunch May 31, 2026 Twice a year, we invite women – currently in our shelters or those we have walked alongside in the past – for an afternoon of connection, community, pampering, and ‘shopping’ for seasonal clothing and items. We also invite community members to join us to see the impact of their support firsthand, to volunteer, and to meet the women. Join us in celebrating a community of care! Donate new items to stock the shopping experience –shop our wishlist.
Issaquah Nourishing Network Meeting Minutes April 2026 & Presentation from Issaquah School District Counseling Services
Issaquah Senior Center - May Newsletter with all events, programs and lunch menus
Clothing Swap coming May 22! Bring donations May 4 - 15, 9am - 1pm.
Senior Tax Exempt Program May 15, 2026 Learn how the tax exempt program may help reduce your property taxes
Veteran Breakfast May 18 at 8am
Tahoma National Cemetery May 20, 2026 Join Issaquah, Mt Si and Sno-Valley Senior Centers for a special trip to honor our veterans and have lunch at a nearby restaurant.
Military Spouse Roundtable Tuesday, May 19 12:00 – 1:30 PM Join an important conversation supporting the military spouse community at the Hawk Career Center, JBLM Lewis-North. Hosted by the Washington State Military Spouse Initiative, this roundtable is focused on breaking down employment barriers and connecting military spouses to valuable resources for success. Featuring guest speaker Olivia Burley, WA State Military Spouse Liaison, leading an open discussion for spouses across the JBLM community. Free to attend, Children are welcome. Please RSVP by using QR code at link above.
KCLS: Renton Library Resource Days Next: May 21, 2026 View all dates RentonFor community members in need of support. Local social support providers will help connect you to resources such as healthcare, free job training, access to ORCA cards, a free phone (call ahead to confirm), gently used clothes, hygiene kits and free lunches (while supplies last). A special thanks to our partners at REACH Renton who provide food, clothing and amazing volunteers! Participating agencies might include: Cowlitz Indian Tribe Mobile Medical Van, Community Health Plan, Native Workforce Services Program, King County Regional Housing Authority - Ombuds & Coordinated Entry, LELO Re-licensing Program, International Community Health Services, Puget Sound Training Center, King County Promotores Network, King County Public Health (Orca Cards), DSHS Seattle Housing Authority, PIM Savvy - Renton, Renton Technical College. *Registration not required.
FEMA Funding for Eligible Flood Survivors On April 7, the federal government approved Washington’s request for a federal disaster declaration for the December 2025 Floods. People who suffered disaster-related damage in King, Chelan, Grays Harbor, Lewis, Pacific, Pierce, Skagit, Snohomish, Thurston, or Whatcom counties, or one of the affected tribal communities may qualify. Apply for FEMA assistance in 1 of 3 ways: - Online: disasterassistance.gov - Phone: (800) 621-3362 - Download and use the FEMA app . Anyone using a relay service, such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, can give FEMA the number for that service. For an accessible video on three ways to apply for FEMA assistance, visit: youtube.com/watch?v=LU7wzRjByhIThe deadline to apply for FEMA Individual Assistance is June 10, 2026. Link to the FEMA press release.
Human Services events
EHAC (Eastside Homelessness Advisory Committee) meeting is scheduled for next Thursday, May 7th, between 10:30 AM and noon. Contact NQuijano@bellevuewa.gov for the link and agenda which includes group troubleshooting. It should be a lively meeting!
LifeWire is a comprehensive services provider supporting survivors of domestic violence on their journey toward safety, stability and healing. Our programs offer safety planning, mental health counseling, legal advocacy, eviction prevention, rental assistance, and emergency shelter. Community members interested in learning more about partnership and financial support opportunities with LifeWire are invited to join us at our Hope Grows Here Spring Luncheon on May 15th. Details and registration can be found here: https://lifewire.ejoinme.org/MyEvents/HopeGrowsHereBrunch2026/tabid/1585951/Default.aspx
June 17, 10:00 AM, Seattle Human Services Coalition will gather in person at Montlake Branch Library (2401 24th Ave E, Seattle 98112.)
for our General Membership Meeting, where we get to fellowship together and celebrate all the ways we are making a real difference in our community. Come to hear updates on the City Budget Process, meet with Members of the City Council Human Services, Labor, and Economic Development Committee, the Human Services Department, and, most importantly, your fellow SHSC Members! Discuss advocacy opportunities and share the challenges facing your organization. Register at https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSezRY1RQbDgNzqGdDqUgzv0T_f7hDs7EkA_uSVQRQ1NqzhFCQ/viewform
EMPLOYMENT
Renton Technical College Career Fair May 20 & 21, 2026 With 80+ businesses participating each day, this is one of the largest hiring events in our region. Whether you're exploring a new career path, seeking advancement, or ready to enter the workforce, this is your opportunity to connect directly with employers who are actively hiring. Employers will represent a wide range of industries including trades, manufacturing, business services, public sector, health care systems, clinics, and more. Come prepared with your resume, dress professionally, and be ready to make meaningful connections. This event is open to job seekers, students, and community members looking to build their future right here in Renton. FLYER HERE
ASKS AND OPPORTUNITIES
Essentials First: Seeking donations of fabric to use in Sewing Classes, a pathway out of poverty for women in our communities. Donations can be dropped off at the Bellevue location 10am - 2pm weekdays, or contact Amina to make arrangements - Amina@essentialsfirst.orgEssentials First Bellevue: 919 124th Ave. NE, Suite 103 Bellevue, WA 98005 Phone: (425)-502-7768
IFCB: ONE-TIME DONATION DROP-OFFS: Now serving approximately 9,200 people across all services. Additional changes to federal and state funding stand to create an even greater shift in the number of people needing assistance accessing food, as well as the resources accessible to food banks. Please check our current needs list to see our highest priority items. We update this list regularly to reflect our largest inventory gaps on our most-requested food items. Bring your donations to our warehouse ONLY during scheduled days and times. Warehouse location: AtWork (930 7th Ave NW, Issaquah, WA 98027) Donation drop off dates/times:
Mon., April 27, 1:00 - 3:30 p.m.
Sat., May 9, 9:30 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
Mon., May 11, 1:00 p.m. - 3:30 p.m.
Thurs., May 21, 1:00 - 3:30 p.m.
Tues., May 26, 1:00 - 3:30 p.m.
Day of Service May 2, 2026 We work with groups that help in all walks of life from helping those transitioning out of homelessness, our elderly hoping to age in place, our military, and of course the environment. You name it, we are happy to help. With so many different locations, we hope you can find one near you! From Sammamish to Seattle, Renton to Bellevue and everywhere in between. Get to know your neighbors while giving back. Meet like-minded people who want to make the world a better place.
Bloodworks Northwest (Age 16+) The gift of an hour of your time and a pint of blood is needed by our Pacific Northwest hospitals. Join us on Saturday, May 2nd, and take part in the Annual Day of Service. Help boost the community blood supply as a blood donor. Your donation will be used by those fighting cancer, those surviving traumatic accidents, and by organ transplant patients. The Bloodworks bloodmobile will be in the Sammamish Hills Lutheran Church parking lot for the day. Blood donors age 16 and older can book appointments to help save lives. Please arrive with photo ID, and make sure you are well hydrated, and have eaten a hearty meal/snack. Sign up HERE
Issaquah Library: Issaquah Library Anniversary Call for Art! Submit by May 15, 2026 The Issaquah Library is celebrating it's 25th Anniversary in our current location. Come join us in the celebrations by creating art based on the theme "What the Issaquah Library Means to Me" and submitting it online by May 15th. All submissions will be printed for display, so you can keep your masterpieces safe at home. See form for details. The best artwork in each age category may be used for posters and/or bookmarks by the library! Sponsored by the Downtown Issaquah Association.
Recruitment for HSD's Volunteer Victim Support Team through May 29, 2026 The Seattle Human Services Department's Victim Support Team (VST) is a group of volunteers who provide compassionate support to survivors of violence and their loved ones during a critical time of need. VST celebrates its 30th anniversary this year and will begin recruiting its next cohort of volunteers on April 15.
VST volunteers can come from anywhere in the community—they do not need to have a background in social work or counseling. Those selected to participate will undergo 50 hours of training before beginning to meet with survivors
Nightwatch in Seattle Volunteer Orientation on Friday, May 8 at 5:30 PM (302 14th Ave S, Seattle, 98144). Come, look around, and find your perfect volunteer opportunity. If you have time, stick around and help us serve dinner! For more info or RSVP:http://tinyurl.com/yc5oxjjw or contact at volunteer@seattlenightwatch.org
FOR SERVICE PROVIDERS
Housing & Homelessness
May 6, 2026 King County Continuum of Care Board (which deals with HUD funding) meets on May 6, 2026 from 2:00 – 4:30 pm at the 400 Yessler building (6th floor) and via Zoomhttps://kcrha.zoomgov.com/j/1600667581?pwd=RUhPM1loZndtZWpIcDVFdy96YS81UT09 Supplemental Materials:
KCRHA Seattle-King County CoC Board Meeting Agenda – May 6, 2026(PDF)
Public comment usually comes early in the meeting.
Any person or organization who is working to address homelessness can register as a member(External link opens in new window) of the Continuum of Care (CoC).
The Seattle/King County Continuum of Care Board serves as our region’s CoC Board and carries out mandatory functions required by HUD regulations. The Board plays an important role in ensuring that King County receives federal funding. Under HUD regulations, the full CoC membership has authority over the continuum’s work and over the CoC Board.
We are currently seeking to expand our Continuum membership and to select new board members. You can find the on-line form for CoC membership at https://app.smartsheet.com/b/form/14a929b05a1c4685a0688352f2b26ac5, and the board member application at https://app.smartsheet.com/b/form/019d1ce30b1f7efba03612510f42360c
Seattle/King County Continuum of Care (CoC) is seeking proposals for the July 2026 CoC Convening(PDF). We invite presentations that provide meaningful insights, elevate diverse experiences, and demonstrate innovative, evidence-informed strategies to strengthen our collective work to end homelessness. Submit a proposal to coc.questions@kcrha.org(External link opens in new window) by 11:59 pm PT on Friday, May 8, 2026 (late submissions will not be accepted).
To provide input on service gaps and suggested priorities, you can find the FY26 CoC Funding Focus & System Gaps Assessment Survey at https://app.smartsheet.com/b/form/019d4fdd3ef97f82978c26ab4977e701
Please take a moment to review and engage with these items as applicable. All of this information can also be found on the KCRHA website - https://kcrha.org/service-providers/continuum-of-care/
Other
June 17, 10:00 AM, Seattle Human Services Coalition will gather in person at Montlake Branch Library (2401 24th Ave E, Seattle 98112.)
for our General Membership Meeting, where we get to fellowship together and celebrate all the ways we are making a real difference in our community. Come to hear updates on the City Budget Process, meet with Members of the City Council Human Services, Labor, and Economic Development Committee, the Human Services Department, and, most importantly, your fellow SHSC Members! Discuss advocacy opportunities and share the challenges facing your organization. Register at https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSezRY1RQbDgNzqGdDqUgzv0T_f7hDs7EkA_uSVQRQ1NqzhFCQ/viewform
WA Poison Center: Call For Proposals for August Overdose Awareness WeekWe are seeking speakers to lead sessions during our 7th annual Overdose Awareness Series. Session formats include presentations, workshops, panel discussions, or any other format you would like to propose. The following are guiding themes to consider for sessions. However, we welcome proposals for any valuable topics related to unintentional and intentional overdose. Proposals must be submitted by Monday, May 18.