It’s estimated that 80,000 federal workers and 11% of Washington’s overall population are impacted by the 2025 government shutdown and subsequent reduction of vital community support programs. In Thurston County alone, there are nearly 35,000 SNAP clients whose nutrition benefits may have been reduced or are in limbo. To combat this need, the City of Lacey encourages residents to check out their Food and Utility Bill Assistance hub.
From this webpage, families can learn more about options and apply for aid. Those able to contribute will also discover how to help through direct donations to the Lacey Food Bank Project or Lacey Utility Assistance Fund.
A Helping Hand for Residents in Need, Thanks to City of Lacey Organizers
Marika Thomas, acting utility billing supervisor for Lacey, says their team is already receiving calls from furloughed federal employees asking about payment arrangements, due date deferrals or waivers for late fees.
Several citywide programs exist and have been used in prior government shutdowns as well as for senior citizens, individuals living with a disability, or those with ongoing needs. Lacey also has a Leak Adjustment Program for families facing leakage repair.
The Lacey Utility Discount Program (LUDP) can cut utility bills in half for residents with limited incomes, those living with a disability, and/or senior residents. The Lacey Utility Assistance Fund (LUAF) can provide qualifying residents with up to $75, twice a year, towards their bill as program monies are available.
For meal assistance, they provide assistance through the Thurston County Food Bank and Lacey Veterans Services Hub.
Join the City of Lacey in Supporting Community Members Through Times of Need
If you’re able to contribute, Thomas says donations can be made when paying your utility bill online. Questions should be directed to 360.491.5616 or UtilityBilling@CityofLacey.org. You can even donate through the utility billing site when not paying your bill.
John Ficker, Thurston County Food Bank executive director, says the organization is experiencing record attendance, with approximately 20% of visitors visiting for the first time. “We work to be a no-barrier organization,” he explains. “Food bank visits are free of charge and there are no income guidelines or considerations” First time visitors can learn about what to expect and then visit their nearest pantry or satellite location.
The Food Bank typically offers an array of produce, baked goods, deli and dairy items, frozen food, canned or dry goods and other necessities as they’re available. The amount offered varies by the number of recipients and what stock they have on hand.
To donate to the Food Bank, consider gifts of cash or something from their curated list:
- Shelf-stable proteins like tuna, peanut butter and chili
- Dry goods like cereal and pasta
- Baby formula
- Gluten free, dairy-free, vegetarian and vegan options
- Healthy, single-serving snacks like fruit pouches, peanut-free granola bars or fruit strips
You can coordinate a food drive of your own and deliver items to one of their neighborhood drop-off sites. They also welcome volunteers year-round.
Other Thurston County Assistance Options to Help Families Through Tough Times
Thomas says that City of Lacey also guides residents to outside resources like WA 211, the Community Action Council of Lewis, Mason and Thurston Counties and the Thurston County Food Bank.
WA 211 is a statewide helpline that matches callers to more 17,000 local resources thanks to a vast regional resource directory. Families can call 877.211.9274, text 211WAOD to 898211 or search the online database directly.
The Community Action Council provides support for health, housing, energy assistance and home weatherization. To make an appointment for services, call 800.878.5235. For utility bill disbursements, call 360.438.1110 and select ENERGY (option 5) to apply.
As the holidays approach, South Sound BIPOC is partnering with the Food Bank for a Thanksgiving Turkey Distribution, says Thomas. Items will be offered at 11 a.m. on Tuesday, November 25 at Saint Martin’s University.
For more internet savvy folks, check out BenefitCheckup.org. This in-depth site can help anyone apply for community, state and federal programs available. There is a detailed list of questions involved, but the system will be able to find programs based on your address and demographics.
Even when the government shutdown resolves, there will be those who need a helping hand. If your family could benefit from – or contribute to – local utility or food assistance, reach out today because that’s what community is all about.
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