Created in 2006 to serve those facing multiple barriers in their claim for Social Security benefits (SSI or SSDI), BLC’s Disabled Homeless Advocacy Project (DHAP) is committed to serving people living with disabilities who are homeless. Due to barriers like transportation, communication, mental and physical health problems, and the need to prioritize tasks required for everyday survival, people who are homeless benefit greatly by having an advocate assist them with the application and the maintenance of their Social Security claim.
The Disabled Homeless Advocacy Project at BLC provides legal information, advice, and representation to people with disabilities who are homeless; all so that they may receive disability benefits from Social Security (SSI/SSDI).
Who DHAP serves: people living with disabilities who are homeless.
When DHAP can help: DHAP will help at any stage of a claim for SSI/SSDI, including: application, request for reconsideration, hearing, and Appeals Council.
What services DHAP provides: referral, legal information, counsel and advice, and direct representation.
Where DHAP provides services: When clients lack transportation, DHAP is committed to meeting clients where they are. BLC makes arrangements to set up an advocacy plan that will be successful, maintaining ongoing partnerships with several shelters in the King County area, and serving clients at the locations they visit for other life-giving services.
Chief Seattle Club
Compass Center
Angeline’s
Downtown Emergency Service Center
Why DHAP?: 44% of people who are homeless in Washington State live in King County. The rate of severe disabilities among the homeless population is staggering. DHAP is there to ensure that the community as a whole has a place to turn when a person who is homeless needs an advocate to help gaining economic and medical stability so that they can gain shelter and wellness.
If you would like more information about this project, please contact us at (206) 686-7252 or info@benefitslawcenter.org.
