Georgetown Food Banks Deal with SNAP Uncertainty

While lawmakers fight, neighborhood charities welcome food and hygiene donations

The federal government shutdown created a crisis for more than 40 million Americans who rely on government assistance to feed themselves and their families.

Uncertainty due to the Nov. 1 expiration of funding for Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits caused food banks in communities across the country and in Georgetown to prepare for increased demand from those needing help with groceries. It also sparked interest in those wanting to help.

“It’s almost like we are creating a mini pandemic,” said Sam Sim, executive director of the Puget Sound Labor Agency Food Bank, 5300 4th Ave. S, in Georgetown. Of course, five years ago, there was a lot of food coming to food banks subsidized by the government in response to the pandemic and related economic crisis, Sim recalled. 

That is not the case now. 

Working with an annual operating budget of $360,000, Sim said staff and volunteers at the PSLA Food Bank try to give people staples like onions and rice along with seasonal fruits. Proteins are a challenge. 

“This week I am giving out eggs. Last week I was giving out shrimp, but we're at the mercy of what the USDA is giving,” he said.

Regardless of when or how the SNAP funding is resolved, Sim encouraged anyone needing help with food to visit the PSLA Food Bank. He stressed that it isn’t only for those who are destitute or unhoused. With Seattle as expensive as it is, those working can benefit, too.  

“If they come in and take $100 in groceries, then I can keep another $100 or $200 in their pocket that can pay another bill. People can spend that on other things like Thanksgiving and Christmas,” he said.

The PSLA Food Bank moved to Georgetown in 2022 after operating in other parts of Seattle for decades. The St. Vincent de Paul Food Bank is nearby on Fourth Avenue in Georgetown.

Those looking to help either food bank can donate canned goods or money, Sim said. He encourages Georgetown residents to visit and get a tour during operating hours. See below for more information.

To find a Seattle food bank or community fridge near you, click here.

Georgetown Food Banks

Puget Sound Labor Agency Food Bank

5300 4^th Ave. S

Hours: 10 am - 1 pm, Mon and Weds

Click here to donate with PayPal or Credit Card

St. Vincent de Paul Food Bank

5950 4th Ave. S

Hours: 11 am - 2 pm on Tues, Thurs and Fri

Click here to donate