Food Assistance

If you need help buying food, there are programs in Washington State that can help.

WIC

The Nutrition Program for Women, Infants and Children (WIC) provides healthy foods, nutrition tips, breastfeeding help and referrals to pregnant and breastfeeding women and children under the age of five. With WIC you can receive checks for up to $50 to buy healthy foods at your local grocery store. Getting WIC will not affect your immigration status. WIC is an equal opportunity program.

• Use the Benefit Finder to see if you may qualify for WIC.
  
  

Basic Food

Basic Food is the name for the food stamp program in Washington State. Basic Food helps low-income families buy food with an Electronic Benefits Transfer Card (EBT). EBT cards work like debit cards. You can spend your monthly benefits in participating grocery stores.

• Use the Benefit Finder to see if you may qualify for Basic Food.
  
  

Food Banks

Food banks are another resource in your community. If you find yourself running out of food at the end of the month, or skipping meals so that your children will have enough to eat, your local food bank can help. Food banks provide groceries for immediate help in making ends meet.

• To find a food bank in your community, use the NEW Resource Finder and select the word Food Banks from the list. You can also call the Family Food Hotline at 1-888-436-6392.