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I wanted to provide an update on how the federal government shutdown has impacted SNAP funding and food benefits for people in Washington state.
While circumstances continue to change and we see glimpses of movement toward reopening the government, DSHS continues our work to interpret and implement the latest court orders, federal directives and congressional action. DSHS has worked to get food benefits out to customers as quickly as possible. More than 383,000 families have received November food benefits. SNAP benefit recipients should check the status of their card by calling the number on the back. If funds are available, they can use them.
For questions about the amount of food benefits received or if benefits aren’t loading onto EBT cards by the usual issuance dates, contact the local DSHS office or DSHS Customer Service Contact Center at 877-501-2233. Recipients should keep applying, renewing and reporting any changes that may affect benefits to make sure benefits go to where they are needed as soon as possible.
I recognize this has been a difficult time for many Washington families—particularly when the news from the federal government has been changing so frequently. Please know that DSHS employees and partners have been working to ensure Washingtonians get vital food assistance quickly and accurately. Please also know that as we have updates to the situation, we will continue to make them on our website, found at dshs.wa.gov.
Thank you again for your patience during this truly unprecedented time.
Angela Ramirez
Secretary, Dept. of Social and Health Services
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