THURSTON COUNTY, Wash. — Since the Trump Administration’s changes to SNAP benefits and other social services took effect, thousands across Washington have lost access to food assistance programs.
As a result, experts and advocates say, demand on local food assistance programs is higher than ever.
In a press conference Wednesday, Thurston County Food Bank, Food Source Foundation, and Congresswoman Marilyn Strickland said that since the passage of H.R. 1 and SNAP benefit changes, food pantries across Thurston County have consistently set new single-day attendance records.
“In 2026, nearly 25% of our pantry customers are first-time visitors. We have expanded evening hours and increased home delivery to meet this growing need, even as we receive significantly less food and resources through federal programs. Our community embraces the spirit of neighbor helping neighbor, but food banks cannot replace SNAP’s reach. Protecting this essential program helps ensure that children, seniors, and working families have the food they need to thrive,” John Ficker, Thurston County Food Bank Executive Director, said.
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