– A response to Assistant Secretary Carla Reyes ESA Express Quarterly Newsletter
On July 4, 2025, the federal government signed H.R.1, otherwise known as the One Big Beautiful Bill. This law introduces severe cuts to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), threatening food security for nearly one million Washingtonians. Among those affected are thousands of refugee and immigrant families who depend on SNAP to make ends meet as they rebuild their lives in a new country.
Many of the families and individuals we serve rely on SNAP during their first few years in the U.S., especially while they navigate new systems and enter the workforce. Cutting them will have immediate real-life consequences.
The new law reduces average SNAP benefits by about $56 per household per month. For families already stretching every dollar, that could mean skipping meals, cutting back on fresh produce, or sacrificing other nutritional items.
There are now 130,000 Washingtonians at risk of losing their benefits altogether.
SNAP doesn’t just help families; it boosts the economy and supports local communities. According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) every dollar spent through SNAP generates $1.54 in local economic activity. With this law pulling an estimated $360 million annually from Washington’s economy, the ripple effect will dramatically change our communities, especially immigrant, refugee, and minority neighborhoods.
In addition to federal cuts, Washington state is facing a $16 billion budget deficit. As a result, the Economic Services Administration (ESA), which oversees many safety programs, has been forced to reduce its own budget by over $28 million.
These reductions will slow down services, limit access, and create longer waiting times for families and individuals in need. Many refugee and immigrant families already face barriers due to language, technology, and cultural differences. Reduced staffing and slower response times could mean the difference between getting help and falling through the cracks.
As we continue to support our clients the best we can, we ask for your support. Raise your voice and advocate for policies that center around compassion, equity, and justice. Call your elected officials and share this message. Let them know that our communities deserve better!