With recent funding disruptions caused by the federal government shutdown, many families are understandably concerned about how this may impact WIC and SNAP benefits. We know this can be a stressful and uncertain time — and you’re not alone.
In response, Puyallup Tribal Health Authority (PTHA) has started our annual holiday food drive early this year. Staff and patients have already begun donating to help support families in need. If you’d like to contribute, please bring shelf-stable, unopened items that are safe to eat and in good condition. Every can, box, and jar helps — especially now.
While some federal programs may experience delays, local and state agencies are working hard to keep essential services like WIC and SNAP funded and operating, even if at reduced capacity.
If you currently receive WIC or SNAP benefits, please check directly with those programs for the latest updates and available support:
WIC Program – doh.wa.gov/you-and-your-family/wic
PTHA WIC patients can also reach out directly to our WIC coordinator or check for updates in the WIC app.
SNAP (Basic Food Assistance) – dshs.wa.gov/esa/community-services-offices/basic-food
If you need extra help putting food on the table, several local food banks and community programs are stepping up to fill the gap:
Local Food Resources
Tacoma & Pierce County Food Banks – piercecountywa.gov/454/Food-Banks
Help Me Grow Washington – helpmegrowwa.org/food
211 Washington (Food Resources) – wa211.org/resources/food
Food Lifeline – foodlifeline.org/find-food
Northwest Harvest – northwestharvest.org/our-work/food-access-network
FAQ for those visiting a food bank for the first time: hungerfreewa.org/foodbanks
Additional Native Specific Resources
Native Resources Hub – nativehub.org
Tahoma Indian Center – tahomaindiancenter.org
Puyallup Tribe’s Wrap Around Department Food Pantry (Tribal Members Only): email WrapAroundProgram@puyalluptribe-nsn.gov
We’re all in this together. Whether you’re donating to the food drive or reaching out for support, your PTHA community is here to help make sure no one faces this season alone.