Love Overwhelming

What the Forecast Means for Longview, Kelso, Kalama, Woodland, and Castle Rock Winter is approaching, and the question on everyone’s mind is simple: what will Mother Nature bring this year? According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) , colder-than-normal conditions are expected across the Pacific Northwest , including right here in Cowlitz County . That means communities like Longview, Kelso, Kalama, Woodland , and Castle Rock should prepare for a season that could bring both challenges and opportunities for neighbors to come together. A Winter That Tests Us NOAA’s winter outlook highlights that the Pacific Northwest is likely to see below-average temperatures and increased precipitation. For families in Longview and Kelso , that could mean higher heating bills. For residents in Kalama , Woodland , and Castle Rock , icy roads and storm disruptions may complicate daily life... Power outages. But for our most vulnerable neighbors... those experiencing hom...

Standing Together | Cowlitz County  By Charles D. Hendrickson, Executive Director, Love Overwhelming Across Cowlitz County in Washington State , families are facing empty cupboards as federal SNAP (food stamp) benefits are delayed or reduced during the ongoing government shutdown. In moments like these, it’s the strength of our local community that makes the difference.  At Love Overwhelming, we’ve seen firsthand how food insecurity compounds housing instability and health challenges. But we’ve also seen how quickly neighbors rise up to help.  Based on recent research and collaboration with local partners, including Lower Columbia CAP , which continues to lead countywide food distribution and outreach, here are the  TOP THREE (3) ACTIONS YOU CAN TAKE RIGHT NOW to make a measurable difference . Call one local food bank to ask about volunteering. Make a donation to a local food organization. Contact at least one federal representative. Food banks across Washington a...

 Where to Get Free Food and Hot Meals in Cowlitz County... Longview & Kelso WA Resource Guide If you or someone you know needs food support in Cowlitz County , you're not alone. With the recent federal SNAP benefit pause affecting over 900,000 Washington residents, dozens of community partners across Longview , Kelso , Woodland, and Castle Rock are stepping up to ensure no one goes hungry. This guide connects you with local food pantries , hot meal programs, and senior lunch sites throughout Cowlitz County. Food Pantries in Cowlitz County Longview WA Food Pantries CAP Help Warehouse Address: 1526 Commerce Ave, Longview Hours: Wednesdays 11 a.m. - 2 p.m. (closed 3rd Wednesday of each month) Phone: (360) 425-3430 x221 Additional Services: Senior Lunch (55+): 2nd Thursday each month Commodities: 3rd Tuesday each month 8 a.m. - 2 p.m. Salvation Army Food Pantry Address: 1639 10th Ave, Longview Hours: Monday, Wednesday, Thursday 2 p.m. - 4 p.m. Phone: (360) 423-3...

As Longview's transitional shelter closes October 1st, recovery warriors like Kenny need community support to maintain hard-won progress By Charles D. Hendrickson October 1st marks more than just another date on the calendar for families across Cowlitz County. It's the day Hope Village closes its doors after 2.5 years of helping over 110 neighbors transition from homelessness to stable housing. For residents like Kenny, a college student fighting to maintain his sobriety, it means something much more immediate: hauling wooden pallets across muddy fields to keep his tent dry through the rains that always come in October. This story isn't about politics or policy debates. It's about what happens to real people when support systems disappear, and how communities like ours respond when neighbors need help the most. The Reality Behind the Statistics Kenny's story puts a human face on what Hope Village's closure means for Southwest Washington. He's not just anoth...