Need Help?
Federal, state and local governments are working to help those in need during the COVID-19 outbreak. Be sure to check back to this page as more resources are posted.
Still need help? Email us.
Rent Assistance
If you don’t have enough money to pay, contact your landlord immediately. Help includes:
- Issaquah recently allocated $100,000 in emergency funding for rental assistance to help those in need.
- The Governor has enacted a 30-day statewide moratorium on evictions of renters.
- Mayor Mary Lou Pauly also issued a Proclamation of Emergency stating landlords or owners shall not require payment of late fees or charges due to delinquent payment of rent.
- Rental assistance and counseling: 800-569-4287
Mortgage Assistance
If you don’t have enough money to pay, contact your lender immediately. Help includes:
- Washington home-ownership hotline: 877-894-HOME
- Tips from the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau
Paying Utilities
If you need help paying your utility bills, contact your service provider immediately.
- The City’s utility bill relief program can be found here. Need to contact the City’s Utility Billing team? Send us an email.
- Puget Sound Energy will not disconnect customers, will waive late fees and offers payments plans.
- Comcast is offering free WiFi hot spots, unlimited data and no disconnects or late fees.
- The Utilities and Transportation Commission offers energy assistance programs.
- The federal government also has assistance programs to help with telephone and heating bills.
Student Loans
If you need help with your student loans, you may be able to temporarily suspend your payments by applying for a deferment or forbearance from the U.S. Department of Education.
Other Resources
The Washington State Department of Financial Institutions has developed a list of financial resources for Washington consumers impacted by COVID-19.
Food Assistance
If you’re looking for help feeding yourself or your family, visit the Issaquah Food and Clothing Bank, which offers weekly pre-packed boxes for pick up, or “Groceries to Go” for those who need it.
For school-aged children, learn more about meals provided by the Issaquah School District.
To maximize social distancing while shopping for groceries, try going when local stores open (many open at 6 a.m.) when there are less crowds. Some stores also offer the ability to order online, and have groceries either delivered or arranged for pick-up.
Unemployment
Anyone who has lost their job due to coronavirus or has had to take time off to self-quarantine or care for a sick relative (and does not get paid sick time from work) should apply for Unemployment Insurance.
Have you been denied unemployment insurance? There has been some auto-generated denials that are not in line with the updated rules. The Washington State Employment Security Department (ESD) encourages you to file your weekly claim anyway.
If you’ve been denied or are a gig worker, watch this video to learn more about steps you can take to ensure your unemployment claim moves forward.
Workers’ Compensation
Anyone whose job has brought them into direct contact with someone with coronavirus (for instance, a first responder or a health care worker) and has become ill or are required to quarantine can file for Workers’ Compensation.
Other Financial Assistance
The Governor’s Office also has a helpful resource list for impacted Washington businesses and workers.
Local Job Opportunities
Regional partners have created a consolidated list of opportunities for laid off or furloughed workers.
- Issaquah School District Resources
- Childcare Services
- Virtual "Hangouts" for teens hosted by The Garage - A Teen Cafe
- Digital Resources for Students
- Emergency Computer and Internet Hot Spot Check Out
- How to Talk to My Child about Coronavirus
- Internet Access
- Transportation Services
- Youth Crisis Support Services
Insurance Issues
The Washington State Office of the Insurance Commissioner has resources and information available for consumers who have insurance related questions.
Local Seniors
Are you feeling isolated? Call 425-392-2381 and let us know. Our Senior Center staff will call you periodically to check-in, and provide support.
Mental Health
If you or a loved one are in a mental health crisis or may be suicidal, please do at least one of the following:
- Call King County Crisis Connections at 206-461-3222
- Call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-8255
- Text HELLO to 741741
- Dial 911
Additional Information
- United Way of King County has a helpful resource list.
- If you have experienced sexual assault and need support, or if you would like more information about sexual violence, call King County Sexual Assault Resource Center’s 24-hour Resource Line at 888.99.VOICE.
- WA Warm Line is a peer support line for people who might feel isolated or vulnerable at 877-500-WARM (877-500-9276).