Overview
When people in the Tri-Cities say “DSHS,” they typically mean one of several local offices of Washington State’s Department of Social and Health Services, the umbrella state agency administering most public benefit programs. Understanding which DSHS office handles which services can save families significant time and frustration. This page maps the local DSHS landscape for Benton and Franklin County families navigating disability services.
Who It’s For
Families in Benton and Franklin Counties who need to access state-administered benefit programs including DDA services, Apple Health (Medicaid), food assistance, cash assistance, home and community services, or who need to connect with a case manager.
Local DSHS Offices
DDA / HCLA — Kennewick (Developmental Disabilities)
The local DDA/HCLA office handles DDA enrollment, waiver services, case management, and referrals for individuals with developmental disabilities.
Address: 500 N Morain St, Suite 2210, Kennewick, WA 99336
Hours: Monday–Friday, 8:00 AM–5:00 PM
Toll-Free: 1-800-462-0624
DSHS Community Services Office (CSO) — Kennewick
The Kennewick CSO handles cash assistance (TANF), food assistance (Basic Food/SNAP), Apple Health (Medicaid) applications, and other benefit programs.
Services available: 8:00 AM–2:00 PM (in-office and by phone at 1-877-501-2233)
Phone: 1-877-501-2233
DSHS Home and Community Services (HCS) — Kennewick
HCS coordinates in-home care and community services for individuals with disabilities and older adults, including personal care through Apple Health programs.
HCS Kennewick Office
DVR — Eastern Washington
The Division of Vocational Rehabilitation serves the Tri-Cities area through its Eastern Washington offices.
DVR Office Locations
Benton County Department of Human Services
Benton County’s own Human Services department serves as the County Coordinator for DDA Supported Employment and Community Inclusion Programs, Child Development Services, the local Parent Coalition, transition services, and Special Olympics.
Address: 7102 W. Okanogan Place, Suite 201, Kennewick, WA 99336
Benton County DHS
How to Apply for Benefits
- Online: WashingtonConnection.org — apply for Apple Health, food, and cash assistance, submit reviews, and report changes
- By phone: 1-877-501-2233 (statewide DSHS line)
- In person: Kennewick CSO or HCS office
