FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: New Resource Details Impact of Federal Food Assistance Cuts on Washington Communities

SEATTLE, WA — In response to sweeping federal budget cuts enacted through the “One Big Beautiful Bill,” Northwest Harvest has released a comprehensive new resource outlining the projected impact on food security across Washington state. Federal Funding Cuts: Impact on Washington State Food Security includes key statistics, community testimonials, and messaging guidance for journalists, partners, and policymakers.

The federal legislation includes significant reductions to SNAP, Medicaid, and food bank funding—programs that nearly 2 million Washingtonians rely on.

According to the report, these cuts will result in:

• 130,000 Washingtonians losing SNAP benefits entirely
• A $252 million annual reduction in local economic activity
• Up to 500,000 residents losing Medicaid coverage
• A loss of 20 million pounds of food statewide

“These federal cuts will push more Washington families into hunger while simultaneously reducing the resources available to help them,” said Natasha Dworkin, Director of Communications at Northwest Harvest. “It’s a double blow that will have lasting consequences for our communities.”

The resource also includes firsthand accounts from food banks and service organizations across the state, describing rising demand, reduced supply, and growing economic hardship. It outlines expected impacts on individuals, families, schools, healthcare systems, and local economies.

Media and stakeholders are encouraged to use this resource for reporting, advocacy, and community engagement. View the report >

To request an interview with a Northwest Harvest subject matter expert, or for general information and resources, please visit our Media Hub >

About Northwest Harvest 
Northwest Harvest is an anti-racist, anti-oppression organization committed to transforming an unjust food system into one that is more responsive and accountable to communities most impacted by discrimination. Beyond food distribution, the organization works to shift public opinion and impact institutional policies that perpetuate hunger and poverty in Washington state. Learn more at www.northwestharvest.org.

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