MOSES LAKE — With the Open Doors Sleep Center closing in days, several community resources gathered there Monday for a resource fair to ensure people have access to alternative resources. Several groups spoke with sleep center clients and provided alternatives in the community.  

Advance Recovery Navigator Program  

Advance is a resource for individuals in early recovery from substance abuse, offering personalized support tailored to each person's unique journey. Recovery coaches with the program have been through recovery and can provide support in a way that’s accessible to those battling addiction.  

"We are resource brokers," explains Jose Degante, a recovery coach at Advance. "As long as you suffer from substance abuse, that's all you need to qualify for the program."  

This inclusive approach allows any individual seeking help to access a wide array of resources, from treatment centers to aftercare services. 

The program emphasizes customized care, recognizing that recovery is not a linear process.  

"Recovery looks different for everyone," said Degante.  

Clients are empowered to express their preferences and goals, guiding how they wish to navigate their recovery journey. Whether individuals opt for holistic practices, 12-step programs, or spiritual support, Advance assists them in discovering relevant resources that align with their needs, Degante explained.  

“We just discover resources with them and point them in the right direction,” said Degante.  

For more information, call 800-810-4138. 

Central Washington Disability Resources 

Central Washington Disability Resources is a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting individuals with disabilities in Central Washington, specifically in Yakima, Douglas, Kittitas, and Grant counties. 

According to Kenia Morales, a program advocate at CWDR, the organization aims to enable “independent living” for those with a wide range of disabilities, including not only physical challenges but also conditions such as anxiety and depression.  

CWDR provides an array of resources, from assisting individuals in navigating Social Security Insurance paperwork to advocating for students in school settings. 

Morales emphasized the importance of accessibility, stating, “The best thing to do is just give us a call. The worst case, it could be like, ‘Oh no, we don’t do that.’ But it never hurts to ask.”  

By offering tailored guidance and support, the organization serves as a crucial resource hub for individuals seeking assistance in various life aspects, including housing and healthcare.  

Additionally, CWDR works in collaboration with other community resources, ensuring that individuals receive comprehensive support.

To learn more, visit MyCwdr.org or call 509-492-5286.  

Goodwill  

Goodwill, through its Foundational Community Supports program, offers resources focused on housing and employment for individuals facing various challenges.  

“We have housing services which are like supportive housing services,” Kathy Chavez, an FCS Housing Specialist, said. 

This program is designed for those who qualify for Medicaid and have specific needs, including mental health or behavioral health conditions, chronic homelessness, or transition from jail or treatment, Chavez explained.  

The core services provided by Goodwill facilitate significant support for people in need. Chavez notes that individuals can access comprehensive services by visiting their office next to the Goodwill store or by making an appointment.  

“They can always come in and make an appointment for an assessment,” she said.  

Additionally, Goodwill offers an online questionnaire to streamline service access, allowing participants to connect conveniently. 

“We’re here to provide long-term supportive services,” Chavez said. 

Contact 509-514-3023 for more information.  

Grant County Health District 

The Grant County Health District plays a role in supporting the community through its Harm Reduction Program and an array of other valuable resources. "We provide hygiene material, water, and most importantly, referrals to services,” Brenda Vela said.  

In addition to the Harm Reduction Program, the health district collaborates with various organizations to broaden support for those in need.  

"We work hand-in-hand with Renew," Vela said, referring to their partnership that facilitates access to mental health services and substance use treatment.  

The district also offers programs focusing on dental health, traffic safety, and active living, demonstrating a comprehensive approach to wellness.  

Contact GCHD by phone at 509-766-7960. 

Housing Authority of Grant County  

The Housing Authority of Grant County is a resource for low-income residents, offering a range of services designed to facilitate housing stability and prevent homelessness.  

According to Nicole Cedillo, a homeless coordinator, the agency provides low-income housing assistance where “we pay 70% and they pay 30% if they get approved.” 

This financial structure aims to ease the burden on families seeking affordable housing options. The waiting list for housing varies by city and bedroom size, typically ranging from six months to a year, but Cedillo said that “you’d be surprised how fast you can move up on the waiting list,” as family compositions change and units become available. 

In addition to housing support, the Housing Authority assists homeless individuals with moving costs and creates individualized stability plans.  

“We also have a rent assistance department that is for people who are facing eviction to see if we can possibly work with the landlord to stay housed,” she said. 

For more information, visit HAGC.net or call 509-762-5541. 

Oxford House 

Oxford Houses support individuals seeking recovery from addiction and reintegration into society.  

“Oxford is a good opportunity to actually help people change their lives and better themselves,” House member David Chapman said.  

By providing a structured living environment, Oxford Houses foster accountability among residents, encouraging them to pursue personal goals such as obtaining employment, securing a driver's license, and reconnecting with their families, Chapman explained.  

With three men's houses and one women's and children's house currently operating in Moses Lake, the organization is poised to address the growing needs within the community, he said.  

For more information, visit OxfordHouse.org.  

People for People 

People for People offers vital transportation services to underserved communities, ensuring access to essential destinations such as healthcare facilities and educational institutions.  

"We offer free transportation out of town,” Mobility Manager Ericka Warren said. “There are opportunities twice a day to Tri-Cities and twice a day to Wenatchee."  

The shuttle connects individuals to various health services, accommodating dialysis clients traveling from Quincy and other residents in neighboring towns, Warren said.  

In addition to fixed routes, People for People provides flexible services that adapt to the unique needs of community members.  

“If there's not a stop on there that someone is wanting, we can sometimes deviate off of our fixed route,” Warren said. 

Further enhancing their offerings, Warren serves as a travel trainer, assisting those who may be apprehensive about navigating transit options.  

"I would totally go with them," she said, underscoring the personalized assistance available.  

People for People fosters inclusivity by offering these services free of charge, aiming to increase ridership and serve as a resource for the entire community.  

“We’re always wanting to increase ridership,” Warren said.  

For more information, visit PFP.org or call 509-765-9249 ext. 555.  

SkillSource and WorkSource 

SkillSource, said Marisa Cairns, career and training specialist, serves as a vital resource for individuals navigating workforce challenges.  

The organization primarily focuses on retraining, offering diverse services to aid those who have been laid off or are seeking new employment opportunities. “We help with retraining in three different ways,” Cairns said.  

These methods encompass assistance with basic computer skills, on-the-job training that can reimburse employers up to 75% of wages, and scholarships of nearly $6,000 to help individuals return to school and transition into in-demand jobs. 

WorkSource, which operates in the same building as SkillSource, extends its support through free workshops and resources.  

“Our resources are free if you qualify,” Cairns said.  

The organization hosts orientation sessions and workshops on job search strategies, resume writing, and interviewing skills. Open to all members of the community, SkillSource and WorkSource position themselves as comprehensive support systems.  

“We’re the one-stop shop,” Cairns said. 

To learn more, visit 309 E. Fifth Ave. Suite B or call 509-766-2559.  

Working Families Tax Credit 

The Working Families Tax Credit program, initiated in 2023 by the Washington State Department of Revenue, aims to support low-income families and individuals by providing a sales tax refund.  

With potential refunds ranging from $50 to $1,200, the program serves as a vital financial resource for those who qualify.  

"This is just a little bit of extra money for people to have in their pocket," said Melissa Barajas, an outreach specialist for the WFTC. 

Eligibility criteria include residency in Washington, an ITIN or Social Security number, and filing federal taxes for the previous year.  

Barajas emphasized the importance of awareness, noting that "a lot of people don't know about it because it is fairly recent."  

The program is ongoing, allowing individuals to apply each year they meet the requirements. Importantly, applicants have four years from the end of the fiscal year to claim refunds, significantly extending their opportunity.  

Barajas encouraged the community to share information about the WFTC.  

"You probably know somebody who does qualify, and I'm sure they would appreciate it if you let them know they could get some extra money,” she said.  

For more information, visit WorkingFamilyCredit.Wa.Gov. 

    Representatives from Central Washington Disability Resources and Housing Authority of Grant County attended the resource fair outside of the Open Doors Sleep Center Monday.