Snohomish County provides funds to family resource centers, food banks

Snohomish County allocated $300,000 to aid food access for residents affected by a federal funding pause for SNAP benefits. The initiative includes $200,000 for ten family resource centers, with a portion aimed at older adults aged 55 and above. Additionally, $100,000 is directed to the Food Coalition, which has seen a surge in demand at food banks. County Executive Dave Somers acknowledged the difficulties in offsetting the funding gap left by the federal stalemate, stressing the need for community support. Third District Councilmember Strom Peterson emphasized the funding as an investment in families facing food insecurity.

Fourth District Councilmember Jared Mead encouraged residents to connect with local resource centers and consider contributing to food banks. The allocation responds to the urgent needs of over 77,000 residents dependent on SNAP. This funding aims to mitigate the impact of the federal shutdown on local food access.