OLYMPIA, WA (MyBellinghamNow.com) – Thousands of state workers will soon begin receiving benefits for their long-term care needs.

WA Cares Fund payments will be available starting on Wednesday, July 1, for eligible residents who have temporary or permanent conditions that require help with daily tasks.

In a press conference Tuesday to announce the rollout, Governor Bob Ferguson celebrated what he called a first-of-its-kind program in the country.

“It’s about a home. Being able to stay in a home with someone you know and you love and you trust who can take care of you,” Ferguson said. “The dignity that comes with that, the sense of place that is so important. You can’t put a price tag on that. You can’t put a dollar on that.”

WA Cares benefits can include installing a wheelchair ramp at home, paying a family member to be a caregiver, help with meals, getting a ride to a doctor’s appointment and more.

Most workers in Washington have been paying 0.58% of their paychecks into the fund since July 2023.

According to the state, seven in 10 Washington residents will need care services and support as they age.

To apply for benefits, residents can fill out a brief online form or call 844-CARE4WA to have a WA Cares team member guide them through the online application or apply over the phone. Applicants can also get in-person support by contacting their local Area Agency on Aging or call 855-567-0252.