Deaf and Blind Resources
Washington Department of Social and Health Services
Office of the Deaf and Hard of Hearing
https://www.dshs.wa.gov/altsa/odhh
What We Do
The Office of the Deaf and Hard of Hearing (ODHH) offers programs and services for Deaf, DeafBlind, Deafdisabled, Hard of Hearing, Late Deafened, and Speech Disabled individuals, their families, and service providers in Washington State. We work to ensure that services and resources are accessible and inclusive to our diverse communities.
Our Regional Office: 7113 W Okanogan Place Kennewick, WA (Walk in hours are 10:00 am to 2:00 p.m. Every Tuesday)
They have Case Management, Family Mentorship (especially for Special Ed system), Group meetings, etc. Local case manager is Shalawn Childs.
Contact us:
For inquiries, email: odhh.cms@dshs.wa.gov or contact your regional Case Manager directly.
Field Supervisor VP: 360-200-0457
Lead Case Manager VP: 509-794-2188
Voice/TTY: 800-422-7930
Voice: 360-725-3450
SIGN LANGUAGE INTERPRETER REQUEST FORM-<-- Click here for Sign Language Interpreter request link
Washington government agencies provide sign language interpreters and communication facilitators upon request to individuals who are Deaf, DeafBlind, or Hard of Hearing. We monitor compliance, service quality, and interpreter certification. We strive to adhere to best practices. We work to create a more accessible and inclusive state government for all citizens.
Accessible Technology
How do we make communication possible
for everyone in Washington State? We provide equipment, training, and support.
You can receive a wide range of equipment and services, from amplified phones, to iPhones and iPads with special apps, and assistive technologies! These are provided through:
• Telecommunication Equipment Program (TED)
• Telecommunication Relay Service (TRS)
• Assistive Communication Technology (ACT)
• Remote Conference Captioning (RCC)
Community Outreach
We work to support Washingtonians in forming meaningful connections between people, organizations, and resources. We work with the public to meet your communication needs, provide training and referrals to education resources, and support information requests and we provide consultation services to individuals with hearing loss and their service providers.
Case Management Services
We collaborate with the DeafBlind Service Center to advocate for equitable social and human services. An ODHH Case Manager is a dedicated professional who works closely with individuals to provide personalized support and guidance. They focus on the unique needs of each client, ensuring that their well-being and quality of life are prioritized.
Through our relationships, we provide:
Information and Referral
Community Education
Assessment: We work closely with you to understand your needs and goals.
Planning: Together, we chart a path toward personal success.
Support: We actively support your right to information and access to resources.
Collaboration: We connect you with services and providers.
ODHH Case Managers are here for you. Reach out anytime; we are ready to listen and support you on your journey. Individuals with questions or clients are welcome to email the team at odhh.cms@dshs.wa.gov.
ODHH Case Management
Office of the Deaf and Hard of Hearing offers case management services statewide.
You can access case management services and contact your case manager, make an appointment to meet at any ODHH office or at an appropriate place you want to meet. Our Region is:
Southeast Region: 7113 W Okanogan Place Kennewick, WA (Walk in hours are 10:00 am to 2:00 p.m. Every Tuesday)
Our Mission:
ODHH empowers individuals who are Deaf, DeafBlind, Hard of Hearing, Late Deafened, DeafDisabled, and have speech disabilities through personalized support, services and collaboration. (YouTube link)
Individuals: If you or someone you know, qualifies and might benefit, our case management services are tailored just for you.
Families: We’re committed to supporting families navigating the unique challenges faced by their loved ones.
Service Providers: We’re in this together! We work together to create an inclusive and accessible environment for all.
Key Features:
Assessment: We work closely with you to understand your needs and goals.
Planning: Together, we chart a path toward personal success.
Support: We actively support your right to information and access to resources.
Collaboration: We connect you with services and providers.
What do case managers do?
An ODHH Case Manager is a dedicated professional who works closely with individuals to provide personalized support and guidance. They focus on the unique needs of each client, ensuring that their well-being and quality of life are prioritized.
Case Manger Role and Responsibilities:
Case managers listen carefully to your concerns, understand your goals so they can support you. Whether it’s accessing healthcare, housing, or social services, case managers are by your side.
Case managers get to know you, help identify your strengths, needs and preferences, and adjust their work to fit your needs.
Resource Connection: Need assistance? Case managers connect you to community resources, such as food banks, counseling services, job training programs, and more to ensure you have access to the support you need.
Coordination: Case managers are the ultimate master coordinators. They collaborate with service and support professionals to create a comprehensive support plan for you.
Empowerment: Case managers believe in empowering you. They let you know about available options to help you make informed decisions and encourage self-advocacy.
Remember, ODHH Case Managers are here for you. Reach out anytime; we are ready to listen and support you on your journey. Individuals with questions or clients are welcome to email the team at odhh.cms@dshs.wa.gov or email the case manager directly.
Edith Bishel Center for the Blind and Visually Impaired
The Edith Bishel Center for the Blind and Visually Impaired is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to serving the blind and visually impaired of southeastern Washington.
In 1988, the founders of The Edith Bishel Center realized that there were no adequate services in the region being offered to people age 55 and over who were blind and visually impaired. This growing, at-risk population was left with few or no resources to help them better function in their daily lives. Individuals who are visually impaired or blind often suffer from feelings of isolation and insignificance, frequently resulting in depression. Founded in 1988 and officially incorporated in 1994, the center has been serving our community for 29 years. After her death, the land and funds to build the center were bequeathed by Edith L. Bishel. Today, the center offers programs and services to all ages.
The Edith Bishel Center currently serves six southeastern Washington counties including Benton, Franklin, Walla Walla, Columbia, Yakima, and Klickitat. We are proud to offer the following services to these communities:
Optometric low-vision examinations
Independent living and low-vision aids
Personalized in-home independent living skills training
Customized computer training and education services
Social activities for adults
Social events for children with vision loss, including a beeping Easter egg hunt
Support groups
Workshops for family members of those with vision loss
Low-vision iPhone/iPad training
Community links to low-vision services and resources
Reading assistance program
Educational outreach program for medical professionals, schools, and the community
Video magnifier loner program
We value helping those who use our services to create a safe living environment as well as learn to do normal daily tasks in the safest possible way.
Contact Information
Edith Bishel Center for the Blind and Visually Impaired
Phone: (509) 735-0699
Email: info@edithbishelcenter.org