Program Timeline

August 1997
WorkFirst begins, replacing former welfare system. WorkFirst caseload stands at 90,000.

September 1997
The former Department of Community, Trade and Economic Development (now the Office of Trade and Economic Development) and the Economic Opportunity Institute begin development of Community Jobs program in partnership with the Department of Social and Health Services, the state Department of Employment Security, and the State Board of Community and Technical Colleges.

March 1998
Contracts awarded to five lead agencies to establish pilot programs in the counties of King, Pierce, Thurston, Lewis, Mason, Grays Harbor, Pacific, Okanogan, Spokane, Ferry, Stevens, and Pend Oreille.