SNAP Support
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Current Impacts to Food Assistance Programs
With unpredictable changes to federal Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits, thousands of children and families in our community face increased risk of food insecurity. For many immigrant, refugee and low-income households, these benefits are a critical lifeline.
To support those affected in our community, we’ve gathered resources to help individuals find assistance, as well as ways to contribute to our local food banks through donations and volunteering. Together, we can make a meaningful difference.
Find Food Resources
Visit our summary of Food Resources.
- In the Bellevue area, visit Hopelink and Renewal Food Bank.
- Visit Food Lifeline to find a food bank near you.
First Time Visiting a Food Pantry?
If you’re new to food pantries, here are a few tips to help you prepare:
- Check the pantry’s website for hours and any required documents or applications.
- Bring your own bags to carry groceries home.
- Many pantries offer fresh produce, dairy, eggs and shelf-stable items like beans, rice and nut butters.
- Many pantries offer groceries that reflect a variety of cultural and dietary traditions.
Accessing Formula
If you rely on WIC for formula, the Washington State Department of Health offers guidance and resources to help support your baby’s health and nutrition:
- Resources for Families Impacted by the Infant Formula Shortage.
- Women, Infants and Children (WIC) Nutrition Program.
How You Can Help
Major food pantry distributors and conveners often have the greatest capacity to receive and maximize support — whether through financial contributions, food drives or volunteer efforts. Right now, the most impactful and flexible way to help is through unrestricted financial donations.
Several trusted organizations in our community are working tirelessly to combat hunger and support families in need. These efforts include food distribution, advocacy and outreach, and they rely on community support to continue. If you're looking for ways to help, consider donating, volunteering or spreading the word the about these local organizations. Visit their “How You Can Help” pages to learn more:
The food distributors listed below have the infrastructure to stretch donated dollars into truckloads of food. These are sorted by volunteers and distributed through the Mobile Market and to food pantries and meal programs across the region. Other forms of support — like food drive donations and volunteer help (especially drivers) — are also welcomed:
Why Cash Donations to Food Banks Matter More Than Ever
While food donations are always appreciated, cash donations can have an even greater impact. They allow hunger relief organizations to:
- Purchase nutritious food in bulk at wholesale prices.
- Prioritize high-demand items.
- Fill inventory gaps quickly and efficiently.
Prefer to Donate Food?
Food drives are a great way for schools, worksites community groups and places of worship to join in ending hunger. Most food banks share a list of their most-needed items on their websites. When possible, consider donating nutrient-rich foods such as:
- Fresh fruits and vegetables.
- Canned tuna, chicken or salmon.
- Peanut butter and other nut butters.
- Canned beans and lentils.
- Brown rice, quinoa and whole grain pasta.
- Shelf-stable milk or plant-based alternatives.
- Low-sodium soups and stews.
- Baby formula and baby food.
- Cooking oils (olive, canola).
- Whole grain cereals.
- Dried fruits and nuts.
We’ll keep this page updated as new information becomes available. For the most immediate updates, please visit the Washington Department of Health.