SPOKANE, Wash. – As the federal government shutdown enters its second day, concerns are mounting over its potential impact on local food services in Spokane.
Despite the shutdown, Social Security payments will continue unaffected. However, the shutdown threatens federal food services, potentially increasing the burden on local food banks like Second Harvest to keep the community fed.
Eric Williams, a team member at Second Harvest, expressed optimism about the situation. “As food bankers we’re always pretty optimistic though so we’re hopeful that the government gets things together and that this is a really short-lived thing,” said Williams.
Local food banks play a crucial role in feeding those facing food insecurity, but the federal government also shares this responsibility. Williams highlighted the collaborative effort involved.
“So, all of the programs for their government or otherwise all seemingly work together to help feed people in need whether it’s children whether it’s adult we’re always working with our partners to meet those needs,” said Williams.
With the government shutdown, the Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) program is particularly at risk. Leaders with the Washington State Department of Health warned that the shutdown could be detrimental to WIC programs across the state. They noted that operations might cease in as little as one week.
Williams remains optimistic despite the uncertainty.
“We’ve learned over the years, not to speculate whether it’s a week out or two weeks because things are always changing,” said Williams. “So we’re always trying to look a week out two weeks out a month out on what food can we get in?”
Last year, WIC received over $190 million in government funds, supporting various programs. However, this year remains uncertain. Raechel Sims from the Department of Health emphasized the timing issue.
“Because we are at the end of the fiscal year, we have to have the budget reconciled… meaning there’s no remaining annual funds,” said Sims.
The Spokane Regional Health District also expressed concerns about the potential impacts on WIC programs in Spokane County.
“The federal shutdown could impact Spokane County’s WIC program if a congressional resolution is not found soon. we are hopeful Congress will soon pass a funding bill that protects WIC and the essential services it provides families in our community,” they said.
Fortunately, Williams noted that food donations continue to come in despite the government halt.
“90+ percent of the food that we get in is privately donated so we’re reliant on whatever is donated to get it in and then get it back out,” said Williams. “So anytime there’s a change at the government level that affects everything everyone but again we’re really fortunate because we have that steady reliable group of private donors who really help us out.”
Williams emphasized the community’s resilience and support.
“Everybody working together really help hold up that net,” he said. “Generosity and kindness are what makes it all work.”
As the shutdown continues, Spokane’s food banks and community members work together to ensure those in need are supported.
