Love Overwhelming

  Welcome to Cowlitz County  By: Charles D. Hendrickson +  Harvey  Nestled in the southwestern corner of Washington State, Cowlitz County  is a land where rivers meet mountains, where history flows as surely as the Columbia and Cowlitz Rivers, and where community spirit runs deeper than the 1,140 square miles of forests, valleys, and volcanic landscapes that define this remarkable region. With a population of 113,982 (2024 estimate), Cowlitz County encompasses five incorporated cities - Longview (the largest), Kelso (the county seat), Castle Rock, Kalama, and Woodland - each with its own distinct character and proud traditions. The county's name derives from the anglicized Cowlitz Indian term "Cow-e-liske," meaning either "river of shifting sands" or "capturing the medicine spirit," a fitting description for a place where nature's power and human resilience intersect. Sources: Wikipedia: Cowlitz County Facts Cowlitz County Official Website W...

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...