Task force urges restoring support for Hear Me Washington youth helpline, highlights referral and budget data

Members discussed restoring and clarifying support for the Hear Me Washington youth helpline, which staff said has been a heavily used early‑intervention resource since its launch. Saba Azami, the meeting chair, summarized usage and referral data and the program’s funding history to argue for explicit mention in the recommendations. "Since its launch on 04/20/2024, the program has made more than 1,300 referrals to date with 69 percent sent to education services, 33% to behavioral health services, 16% to law enforcement, 13% to 9‑1‑1, and 5% to child protective services," Saba said.

Members asked about budget figures and operational details. Ellen Austin Hall (Deputy Policy Director, Washington Attorney General’s Office) said the program’s startup included a capital investment and that the current operating budget is approximately $750,000 per year after an earlier higher initial amount. Several members said the program’s youth‑centered design and a standing youth advisory group made it particularly effective for outreach and referrals. The task force agreed to incorporate recommendations that note the program’s value and to ask legislators to consider funding options when drafting statutory language.