Food Bank Fund Starts; Demand Expected To Double From Coronavirus

OLYMPIA, WA — Gov. Jay Inslee announced a joint partnership between local nonprofits and philanthropic groups to support Washington food banks as they work to meet the growing need during the coronavirus outbreak.

According to the governor, supplies at food banks have dropped to dangerously low levels across the state, and the demand for assistance is expected to double — to 1.6 million residents — this week.

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"Washingtonians are generous neighbors who rise to the occasion, and this is a moment for individuals to make a difference," Inslee said. "By contributing to this fund, we can meet this demand across the state and help our neighbors and their families put a meal on the table."

The WA Food Fund will combine individual fundraising money with donations from businesses and local philanthropists. The funds raised will be distributed among Northwest Harvest, Second Harvest and Food Lifeline — three organizations that help stock food banks across the state.

The Seattle Times reported that several Puget Sound food banks have had to drastically alter their operations or shut down, with fewer volunteers available amid strict social distancing restrictions.

According to the governor's office, donations to food banks have declined approximately 70 percent since the outbreak began, as Washington's unemployment claims have soared to unprecedented levels.

"No matter how much people can contribute, each donated amount helps ease the burden for every person who has lost a job and is struggling to get by," said Thomas Reynolds, CEO of Northwest Harvest. "Emergencies can bring out the best in all of us, and we need that generous spirit to bring about equity to our state's food system."

Learn how to support the WA Food Fund on the Philanthropy Northwest website. Find food bank resources available near you via Food Lifeline, Northwest Harvest and Second Harvest (Eastern Washington).