First-time demand up at Thurston County Food Bank amid disruptions to federal benefits

The Thurston County Food Bank is seeing more households seek food assistance for the first time as Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and Women, Infants and Children benefits have been cut amid an ongoing federal shutdown. 

The nonprofit organization reassured the public that its food pantries and satellite locations are open to community members experiencing food insecurity. 

Executive Director John Ficker, in a message released Friday, Oct. 31, said inquiries have been coming in regarding the status of food bank operations during the federal shutdown. 

“Many families and individuals are experiencing food insecurity for the first time,” he said. “If you or someone you know needs food assistance, please know that our network of food pantries and satellites are open and available.” 

The current strain on households follows recent changes to SNAP. On July 4, President Donald J. Trump signed the One Big Beautiful Bill Act of 2025. 

According to federal program guidance, the law includes adjustments to SNAP eligibility rules, benefits and project administration.

News outlets in several parts of the country have reported increases in calls to local food assistance providers during the same period, as families wait for benefits to be confirmed or reinstated under the updated rules. 

Ficker also noted that people able to contribute may assist through financial support or volunteer work. Monetary donations, he said, allow for the purchase of specific staple items needed in current distributions, while volunteers support warehouse and pantry operations. 

In addition to ongoing distributions, the food bank is preparing for upcoming fundraising efforts and Thanksgiving week distributions. 

Give Local 2025 runs Nov. 10–21 via The Community Foundation of South Puget Sound. Early Giving Week is in effect from Nov. 3–9. The food bank said funds received during those periods would go toward the ongoing distribution of goods and related service operations. 

In the weeks ahead, Thanksgiving distributions are to take place over three days, Nov. 24–26, at three separate locations. The organization announced no advance signup is required unless visiting a satellite distribution site.  

On Nov. 24, distribution is going to be held at Evergreen Christian Community, 1000 Black Lake Blvd. SW in Olympia, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., in a drive-up approach. Vehicles may begin lining up at 9 a.m. The line will close at 3 p.m. 

Drive-up distribution on Nov. 25 will be provided at the Old Main staircase at Saint Martin’s University, 5300 Pacific Ave. SE in Lacey, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. The line begins forming at 9 a.m. 

Indoor service returns on Nov. 26 at the Olympia Food Pantry, 220 Thurston Ave. NE in Olympia, from 10:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. Households that have not yet received Thanksgiving items may obtain them while supplies last.

Parking will be available on Franklin Street, Thurston Avenue and Adams Street. Visitors are asked to bring their own bags. 

People wishing to contribute to ongoing distribution efforts may refer to the Thurston County Food Bank website for guidance on monetary donations and item drop-offs. 

Families in need of food assistance may likewise find distribution locations and service schedules on the website.