Washington state’s We Feed WA program deployed more than $133 million in combined state and federal emergency relief funds during the COVID-19 pandemic, stabilizing the local food supply just as one in three state residents were at risk of experiencing food insecurity, according to a state report.

Recognizing a need, the Washington State Department of Agriculture initiated the pilot food program in 2021. The program was created with the goal of providing hunger relief and support to communities, particularly those underserved by existing food assistance programs, the agency explains.

Through collaboration with hunger relief groups, community-based organizations, and food businesses, We Feed WA provides funding for emergency food for hungry people while supporting local food producers. What’s more, the program aims to address the diverse needs and preferences of communities in Washington state, ensuring culturally relevant and nutritious food options.

The efforts are outlined in a new WSDA report, “A New Vision for Hunger Relief: How We Feed WA is Shaping a More Effective, Equitable Approach to Emergency Food Relief in Washington State.” The report describes how We Feed WA effectively worked to empower communities, combat hunger, and increase equitable access to food across the state at a time when food insecurity was rapidly growing.

Equity is a core value of We Feed WA, and the program sought guidance from the Washington State Office of Equity to ensure fair and inclusive processes in administering funding. Efforts are made to reach underrepresented individuals and communities throughout the state. Meanwhile, the program aims to address the diverse needs and preferences of communities in Washington state, ensuring culturally relevant and nutritious food options.

In its first year, We Feed WA provided approximately 14.8 million pounds of food to those in need. The program's partnerships have significantly expanded food access channels, reaching underserved communities and promoting economic viability for local producers. In total, over 155 hunger relief and community-based organizations, along with approximately 173 food businesses, have contributed to this impactful initiative.

The success of We Feed WA in its first two years has led to continued funding, with $35 million allocated through June 2025.

Source: Washington State Department of Agriculture