The City of Seattle has announced an emergency food assistance program in response to uncertainty about federal Supplemental Nutritional Assistance Program (SNAP) funding. Mayor Bruce Harrell’s Limited Civil Emergency was approved by the City Council. This allows the city to provide up to $1 million per week to local food banks and meal services. The support will continue through the end of 2025 or until federal SNAP funding is fully restored. The goal is to help residents who rely on these services during the funding gap.
Mayor Harrell stated that the city is committed to helping families affected by the federal funding delays. He noted the City Council’s unanimous support for the emergency measure, which could provide up to $8 million in aid. The mayor also encouraged residents to donate to local food banks.
Recent court decisions have affected the situation. On Friday, two federal judges ruled against the federal government for delaying the release of contingency SNAP funds. This decision affects more than 50,000 Seattle households who use SNAP benefits. Despite the rulings, federal officials have said that only partial SNAP payments will be made in November, with the timing still unclear…