The Housing and Essential Needs (HEN) Program provides access to essential needs items, potential rental assistance, and housing stability case management for low-income adults who are unable to work for at least 90 days due to a physical or mental incapacity, or are receiving income through the Aged, Blind and Disabled Program (ABD) or the Pregnant Women Assistance Program (PWA). Program eligibility for HEN is determined by Washington State Department of Social and Health Services (DSHS). Pierce County is seeking to fund one homeless service provider to manage the HEN Program in the county.

The HEN Program was implemented by the Washington State Department of Commerce in November 2011 replacing the Disability Lifeline cash assistance program. The HEN program is a critical, temporary support that prevents long-term homelessness. By design, the program either works to transition low-income individuals back to work at the conclusion of their short-term disability, or to federal Supplemental Security Income (SSI). Individuals eligible for the ABD and PWA programs are now eligible for the HEN program.