The Asian Counseling and Referral Service (ACRS) stands as a beacon of support for the Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander communities, providing resources and advocacy for those facing societal challenges. Newly highlighted by Seattle Human Services, the ACRS's multi-pronged approach offers a lifeline through mental health services, job training, and even a food bank tailored to the cultural needs of its clients.
The organization's tireless work has not gone unnoticed, with a partnership with the Seattle Human Services Department bolstering valuable programs like nutrition assistance and senior care. This partnership allows ACRS to quickly adapt to the evolving demands of the communities it serves, providing culturally sensitive meals and support programs. According to ACRS, their relationship with HSD equips them with the resources necessary to uplift the seniors and youth within their community.
Born from a grassroots movement in 1973, ACRS arose out of a recognized need for specific mental health services—a response to misdiagnosis and negligent care resulting from cultural misunderstanding.
ACRS has seen dynamic growth over recent years, notably in the expansion of its food bank from a compact 600-square-foot area to a new 5,500-square-foot facility that better serves the community. In this updated space, thousands of visitors can now select food that resonates with their cultural tastes. As described by Seattle Human Services, the increased capacity has also led them to successfully provide 500 emergency meals weekly, reaching an ever-expanding demographic in need.
Illustrating the direct impact of HSD-funded initiatives, ACRS points to stories like that of Yuriko Ueda, a senior whose life was touched by Club Bamboo. When faced with isolation during the pandemic, the virtual classes not only improved her mobility but also her mental well-being—an account detailed in an interview by Seattle Human Services.
In the words of ACRS Deputy Director G de Castro: "It’s important that I’m doing something good to improve the condition of our community, especially those who share the same culture and language as me."
