OLYMPIA, WA — Washington state will redirect nearly $2.2 million per week to help food banks beginning Nov. 1, as federal Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) funding is expected to stop during the ongoing federal government shutdown.
Nearly 1 million Washington residents currently rely on SNAP benefits, which bring about $37 million in federal food assistance into the state each week. According to the Governor’s Office, the funding shift is intended to help offset anticipated increases in demand at food banks if federal benefits lapse.
The press release states rural communities could experience the most significant effects of the cutoff. In Yakima County, an estimated 28% of residents utilize SNAP benefits — more than any other county in the state.
Gov. Bob Ferguson has directed the Washington State Department of Social and Health Services (DSHS) to route funds to the Washington State Department of Agriculture (WSDA), which will distribute support to local food banks. The first transfer is scheduled for Nov. 3 and would continue weekly until SNAP funding resumes.
The Attorney General’s Office has also filed a legal challenge arguing the suspension of SNAP violates federal law.
State agencies warn that residents may encounter longer wait times and limited food availability at pantries due to increased demand and ongoing inflationary pressures.
Information and resources for SNAP recipients are available online through DSHS and WSDA, and residents may also connect with Washington 211 for local assistance.
