Standing Together: How Cowlitz County Can Respond to the SNAP Benefits Crisis



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.

  1. Call one local food bank to ask about volunteering.

  2. Make a donation to a local food organization.

  3. Contact at least one federal representative.

Food banks across Washington are experiencing historic demand, with nearly one million residents losing SNAP benefits due to the federal shutdown. Organizations like St. Vincent de Paul in Longview rely on 70 volunteers to serve 55,000 people each year, distributing over a million pounds of food.

These organizations need hands for food sorting, packing boxes, serving meals, and assisting guests. Even a few hours a week can directly feed dozens of families.

Organize a Food Drive | Donate Food | Check on a Neighbor

The USDA has said it will provide only partial SNAP benefits for November using emergency reserves. That leaves thousands of Cowlitz County residents at risk of missing meals or falling deeper into poverty. Cowlitz County has weathered hard times before, and we’ve always done it by showing up for one another. 

Every call, every donation, every act of compassion counts. Together, we can ensure no one in Cowlitz County goes hungry. 

Contact Your Legislators to Advocate for SNAP Funding
Your Cowlitz County Federal Representatives
State Legislators (19th District)

Senators Patty Murray and Maria Cantwell, along with other Senate Democrats, have urged the USDA to release emergency contingency funds.


Location: Longview, WA, USA

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