PRESS RELEASE: Philanthropy Northwest Reactivates WA Food Fund to Address Growing Food Insecurity Across Washington
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Media Contact: Karen Westing, kwesting@philanthropynw.org, 206-443-8466
Philanthropy Northwest Reactivates WA Food Fund to Address Growing Food Insecurity Across Washington
With nearly one million Washingtonians dependent on SNAP benefits, philanthropic partners mobilize
SEATTLE, Wash. — With food insecurity rising across the state and thousands of Washington families recently facing uncertainty over access to federal nutrition assistance, Philanthropy Northwest is reactivating the WA Food Fund, a coordinated philanthropic effort to ensure food reaches communities most in need.
The fund is being relaunched with lead gifts totaling over $4 million from Ballmer Group, Allen Family Philanthropies and M.J. Murdock Charitable Trust, and is administered by Philanthropy Northwest, a network of philanthropic organizations committed to advancing equity and community well-being across the Northwest. All funds raised will be distributed to three statewide hunger-relief organizations that supply food to hundreds of food banks and meal programs: Food Lifeline, Northwest Harvest and Second Harvest.
Originally launched in 2020 to help stabilize Washington’s food system during the pandemic, the WA Food Fund once again brings together philanthropy and community partners to meet urgent demand and strengthen the state’s hunger-relief network.
“Washington’s philanthropic community is stepping up once again to fill critical gaps and support our communities,” said Jill Nishi, CEO of Philanthropy Northwest. “But philanthropy cannot, and should not, replace the vital role of government in ensuring food security. These efforts are a bridge, helping communities weather the recent uncertainty of federal nutrition programs.”
Recent data indicate that nearly 930,000 Washingtonians depend on access to SNAP-funded food assistance, representing approximately 11% of the state’s population. The recent shutdown threatened full federal SNAP benefit payments nationwide and the food security of low-income households already under pressure.
By joining forces, we can move food faster and farther across the state. This collective effort helps ensure that no one in Washington goes hungry.
Stephen Davis
CEO, Food Lifeline
The need is great, but so is the spirit of solidarity. Pooling philanthropic and business resources allows us to respond with both speed and scale.
Thomas Reynolds
CEO, Northwest Harvest
We’re stronger when we work together. The WA Food Fund connects the generosity of our partners to the growing needs in every community.
Jason Clark
CEO, Second Harvest
The WA Food Fund is focused solely on serving Washington residents. These efforts will help strengthen the statewide food network and provide reliable access to meals for families across all counties.
If your organization is interested in contributing to the fund, please visit philanthropynw.org/wa-food-fund or contact Jill Nishi at jnishi@philanthropynw.org.
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WA Food Fund is a coordinated, statewide food relief effort managed by Philanthropy Northwest. Donations from philanthropic and business partners support Food Lifeline, Northwest Harvest, and Second Harvest, which together deliver food to every food bank across Washington.
