Press release from Snohomish County Food Coalition. Edited for Everett Post editorial standards.
SNOHOMISH COUNTY, NOV. 6: As temporary pauses in SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) benefit payments create uncertainty for families across the region, food banks throughout Snohomish County are preparing for an increase in demand for emergency food assistance. This comes as qualifications to SNAP access are tightened for seniors, the unhoused, and families with young teen children, effective Saturday, Nov. 1.
“Our food banks are bracing for a significant uptick in need,” Casey Davis, president of the Snohomish County Food Coalition (SCFC) said. “When federal or state benefits are delayed, families who are already stretched thin suddenly face impossible choices between paying rent, keeping the lights on, or putting food on the table.”
The SCFC, a network of 17 local food banks, is coordinating efforts to ensure that every community in the county has access to nutritious food. Governor Ferguson on Tuesday, Oct. 28 approved an allocation of $2.2 million per week to statewide food bank networks; Snohomish County will see $120,000 of that $2.2 million.
But local food banks can’t meet this need alone. The Coalition is calling on community members, businesses, and organizations to help ensure that no neighbor goes hungry.
“The agencies in our Coalition are uniquely positioned and qualified to expand support for food insecurity needs in our communities” Ellen Halbakken, chair of the SCFC Marketing Committee said. “When donating, please choose an organization whose mission is hunger relief that will continue supporting the community beyond the current challenges.”
Here’s how you can help:
- Donate funds: Every dollar helps food banks purchase fresh produce, protein, and pantry staples to meet urgent needs.
- Donate food: Most-needed items include canned proteins, soups, peanut butter, pasta, and other shelf-stable foods.
- Volunteer: Extra help is needed to sort, pack, and distribute food to families across Snohomish County.
“This is the time for our community to come together,” Davis said. “If you’ve ever thought about helping, now is the time when your support would make a significant difference. Your generosity directly supports local families and seniors who are feeling the strain of rising costs and benefit disruptions.”
The Coalition also wants residents to know that food banks are for everyone, including those who may be seeking help for the first time.
“If you’ve never needed to visit a food bank before, please know you’re welcome,” Davis said. “These resources exist to support our neighbors through tough times. Reaching out for help is a sign of strength, not weakness.”
To find your nearest food bank or learn how to donate or volunteer, visit Snohomish County Food Coalition.
About the Snohomish County Food Coalition:
The Snohomish County Food Coalition is a network of more than 17 independent food banks dedicated to ensuring equitable access to nutritious food for everyone in Snohomish County. Through collaboration, advocacy, and shared resources, the Coalition helps provide millions of meals each year to local individuals and families in need.