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Seattle City Council approves food assistance funding
Washington is one of the states that signed onto a lawsuit against the Trump administration to fund SNAP. While it's unclear how quickly SNAP families will get access to those funds, leaders in our state are looking to fill in the gaps.
SEATTLE - The Seattle City Council convened Monday to discuss an emergency proclamation issued by Mayor Bruce Harrell, aimed at addressing the impending loss of Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits for thousands of residents. The meeting, originally scheduled for Tuesday, was moved up to allow for prompt action.
The City Council decided unanimously to pass the mayor's plan during their meeting. This emergency proclamation will provide $8 million through the end of the year in food assistance programs.
What they're saying:
"It's clear that when the federal government is stepping back from supporting people, it is clear that Seattle will step up. Today's action confirms that," said Councilmember Alexis Mercedes Rinck.
In addition to the emergency proclamation, Seattle residents are encouraged to explore other assistance programs and discounts available for utilities and repairs.
SNAP lapse: food drive coming to WA State Fair Event Center
There will be a community food drive in Pierce County this Thursday as Washington organizations continue efforts to plug gaps for area residents who rely on SNAP benefits.
Seattle ranks as the ninth most expensive city in the United States, with high living costs posing significant challenges for many residents. More than 50,000 Seattleites depend on SNAP benefits each month to help make ends meet.
However, these benefits are at risk, prompting Mayor Harrell to declare a limited civil emergency. This declaration enables the city to access special funding to compensate for the loss of SNAP benefits, providing $4 million per month in food assistance to city-contracted food banks through the end of the year.
Information on eligibility and application processes can be found at seattle.gov/affordable.
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