Support for Families in Need
Seattle Public Schools (SPS) remains committed to supporting students and families in every season, especially during times of crisis.
Some questions have been raised about the impacts on school meal programs while the federal government is operating without an approved budget.
As we face continued challenges related to federal Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) cuts and potential government shutdowns, it is critical to acknowledge the impact on families already facing systemic barriers to food access.
Seattle Public Schools (SPS) remains committed to supporting students and families in every season, especially during times of crisis.
Free School Meals for Kids: As a reminder, all students have access to breakfast and lunch at their school. Many schools serve two to three meals per day. Most children who receive SNAP benefits are eligible to receive free meals at school. If you are unsure if you qualify for free and reduced meals, please fill out the Free and Reduced Price Meals form or visit the district website for more information about school meals.
City of Seattle: Starting Nov. 1, Seattle Mayor Bruce Harrell has authorized $4 million per month in food assistance that will include city contracted food banks through the end of the year or until SNAP benefits are restored. To find the nearest food bank or meal program, use the Seattle Area Emergency Food Resources tool to search by your address.
How to Access Food Now
Use any remaining EBT funds: The USDA has confirmed that unspent SNAP benefits already loaded onto an EBT card can be spent in November. Stretch your remaining benefits with programs like SNAP Produce Match, which gives you an additional food voucher when you buy fruits or vegetables.
Use any WIC benefits: WIC provides healthy groceries to families with young children. The WIC program remains open during the shutdown and has secured funding to operate through mid to late November at minimum. Families with young children can request more information from the Department of Health.
Seattle Council PTSA Mutual Aid: Connects families with community-based resources and grassroots support networks across Seattle, including food, clothing, and emergency assistance. It’s a valuable tool for families seeking immediate, locally-organized aid beyond traditional school and district services. Access Resources: Seattle Council PTSA Mutual Aid
Seattle Food Committee: Families can download a list of resources for free food in Seattle. This is not a complete or exhaustive list of every available resource in Seattle, but it contains organizations and locations providing meals that are available to all and do not require any form of documentation. Food for All – Resources for Free Food in Seattle (a Seattle Mutual Aid resource).
FamilyWorks: This food pantry provides fresh produce, meat, dairy products, baby and instant food and supplies, diabetic and low-salt items, vegan, vegetarian, and culturally specific foods when possible. It is open Tuesdays (12-2 p.m.), Thursdays (3-6 p.m.) and Fridays (11 a.m. – 1 p.m.). FamilyWorks is located at 4318 Stone Way N.
Right Now Needs Fund has partnered with Seattle Public Schools to provide $150,000 districtwide to support families with Amazon support. To access this support, please contact your school’s building point of contact, Social Worker, Family Support Worker, or designated Building Point of Contact. Find your school’s designated support person.
Local Food Pantries: Washington Governor Bob Ferguson has announced that the state will provide $2.2 million weekly to Washington State Food banks for as long as the shutdown continues. There are over 500 food pantries across Washington that provide grocery staples. Find a food bank near you.
Food LifeLine Food Map: Their website has resources that connects you to all of the local food banks and other resources
Northwest Harvest: Northwest Harvest supports families from Aberdeen to Zillah. Find food near you using our searchable map of 375+ food bank partners
Call 2-1-1 or visit 211.org: Can assist you with finding resources local to your area and assist with intakes at any of the King County Regional Access Points.