United Way of Snohomish County’s legislative priorities fared well in the 2013 legislative session and special session. The legislature finished its work on the budget in a special session that ended on June 30.

The organization’s legislative priorities for 2013 focused on early learning, hunger, homelessness and seniors.

The nonprofit’s priorities were chosen after several months of deliberations and careful consideration by United Way’s vision councils, public policy committee, board of directors and other volunteer committees.

Funding was increased for the Early Childhood Education and Assistance Program. That made it easier to enroll in the Working Connections Child Care program and increased the number of kids who participate in the Washington Kindergarten Inventory of Developing Skills (WaKIDS), ensuring they are ready for school and that school is ready for them.

Legislators increased funding for state food assistance to legal immigrants. In the last budget, this program was reduced by 50 percent. In this new two-year budget, the funding was increased to 75 percent of the earlier level.

Funding was preserved for the Housing Trust Fund and the Housing & Essential Needs (HEN) program, formerly called “Disability Lifeline.”

Legislators preserved funding for the Senior Citizens Services Act. Funding for other services of specific interest to seniors, such as long-term care programs were also maintained.

— Story submitted by United Way of Snohomish County