Co-op Statement on SNAP Benefits During Government Shutdown

At Sno Isle Food Co-op, we are deeply concerned to learn that SNAP and other food assistance programs may be temporarily inaccessible starting November 1, 2025. For the more than 900,000 Washington residents and 42 million Americans who rely on these programs, even a short disruption in these programs can mean difficult choices about food, bills, and other essentials.

Food insecurity is a shared reality that affects not only a portion of our shoppers and staff, but many across our community.  As staff, we look to Co-op Principle # 7, Concern for Community, as we work together to develop a framework of how we can best help our community during this time. Over the next several days, we will roll out a series of initiatives and calls to action that we are implementing here at our Co-op to help address this issue. These include a non-perishable food drive, a way to easily donate to local food banks directly at our register, and an updated handout with a list of hyperlocal community resources for those in need.

We urge both our staff and customers to continue to show care in our words and actions toward each other by being understanding, patient, and kind to each other during this time. A this situation remains fluid, and we will communicate updates as they are available.

Together, we can uphold our cooperative values by centering compassion, equity, and community when and where it’s needed most.

In cooperation,

Sno Isle Food Co-op Staff