Understanding SNAP: Food Access, Eligibility, and What’s Changing
Our food bank is a place where neighbors turn for support during times of uncertainty. Rising food costs and unexpected life changes can make accessing groceries feel overwhelming. For many in our community, programs like SNAP help provide stability and ensure access to nutritious food.
What Is SNAP / Basic Food?
The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) is a federal program administered by the U.S. Department of Agriculture that provides monthly benefits to help low-income households purchase food. In Washington State, SNAP is known as Basic Food and is managed through the Department of Social and Health Services (DSHS). Eligible households receive an Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) card, which works like a debit card and can be used at participating grocery stores and farmers’ markets.
Across the country, SNAP helps nearly 42 million people afford groceries. Here in Washington State alone:
Over 905,000 people receive SNAP benefits
More than 531,000 households are enrolled
About 11.38% of Washington residents rely on this support
Eligibility of SNAP Benefits / Basic Food:
The Washington State Basic Food program supports families, individuals, seniors, people with disabilities, and youth, regardless of home ownership, employment status, or age. Monthly benefits are based on your income, living expenses, and how many people buy, share, and prepare food in your household.
What foods can be purchased with SNAP benefits:
The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program has specific rules about what foods can be purchased with SNAP benefits. A more detailed list is on the USDA’s website.
Households can use SNAP benefits to buy:
Breads and cereals
Fruits and vegetables
Cheese, milk, and other dairy products
Meat, fish, poultry, and eggs
Most other food items that are not prepared hot foods
Seeds and plants that produce food for the household to eat
How Federal Policy Changes Are Impacting SNAP Benefits:
Recent federal policy changes have placed increased strain on the systems our neighbors rely on, including SNAP. During the Fall 2025 U.S. government shutdown, uncertainty around federal funding showed how quickly access to essential resources like food and healthcare can be put at risk — especially in communities like South Seattle, where need is already higher.
Significant changes to the SNAP program have taken place and are continuing into 2026. In December, the U.S. Department of Agriculture approved new state waivers allowing tighter restrictions on what foods can be purchased with SNAP benefits. In February, new federal SNAP work requirements took effect, which may impact eligibility for some adults. Additional administrative and funding changes are expected later this year, which could further affect how the program operates and how states implement benefits. The passing of H.R. 1 also shifts more of the program’s financial responsibility from the federal government to individual states, which may create additional challenges for states already facing tight budgets.
At the same time, Washington lawmakers are discussing policies focused on strengthening food access. Proposed legislation for this session includes a statewide, data-informed Food Security Plan (HB 2238), designed to coordinate partners across Washington to improve statewide food access efforts.
At Rainier Valley Food Bank, we see firsthand how critical SNAP is for our neighbors and how policy decisions directly affect their ability to access nourishing food with dignity. As these changes move forward, RVFB remains committed to advocating for food access, supporting neighbors through transitions, and ensuring our community continues to receive the care and resources it needs.
How You Can Take Action and Stay Engaged:
Stay informed about local and federal updates
Raise awareness about food access
Other Social Services Programs:
In addition to monthly food support, here’s a list of more social service programs:
The Basic Food Employment & Training (BFET) program: Provides job search, job search training, educational services, skills training, and other employment opportunities.
The Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC): Helps pregnant women, new mothers, and young children buy nutritious food, learn about nutrition, and stay healthy.
Working Connections Child Care (WCCC): Helps families pay for childcare.
Low-cost local phone service or free wireless programs.
Free or reduced school meal program.
Food is more than fuel. It’s connection, comfort, and care. Programs like SNAP, alongside food banks, help ensure our neighbors can access food during challenging times and move toward stability, so no one has to face hunger alone.
If you’re wondering whether you qualify for Basic Food or need help applying, our team is here to support you. You can get in touch with our community connectors to learn more or get connected to resources — community.connector@rvfb.org.