KIRKLAND, Wash. — The U.S. Department of Agriculture plans to resume food assistance for millions of Americans, but benefits will return at about half their usual amount, leaving food banks scrambling to meet growing demand.
At Hopelink’s Kirkland Food Market and warehouse, donations have been pouring in as volunteers work to fill shelves with staples like rice, oats, pasta, and canned vegetables.
The market’s freezer section is also stocked and ready to serve families in need.
“This is our central warehouse, and it’s instrumental for sorting all the donations that are pouring into our markets,” said warehouse manager Zackary Hoernlein. “In the past week, we’ve had thousands of pounds of donations from community members making sure that all of our shoppers have enough food.”
Hopelink operates five food market locations where people can shop for groceries at no cost. Starting Monday, the nonprofit increased the amount of food people can take home, responding to a surge in need not seen since the COVID-19 pandemic.
“The holiday season is already a big stress for a lot of families,” Hoernlein said. “But we haven’t seen a surge of need like this since COVID.”
According to a news release from Sen. Maria Cantwell’s office, 8.3% of King County residents rely on SNAP benefits, also known as food stamps. With the federal benefits on hold, Hopelink is encouraging anyone in need to visit their markets.
“There is nothing to be ashamed of about visiting our markets,” Hoernlein said. “You’ll get food and be supported.”
The organization is also calling for continued donations, especially nonperishable protein items such as canned chicken.
“There are a lot of people silently struggling right now,” Hoernlein said. “King County residents and organizations are doing a great job at showing they care about fighting hunger, but in this moment, we’re going to need a sustained drive to make sure that we’re matching the need in our community.”
트위터 공유: 식량지원 확대된 희망링크로 위기가구 돕기 시작