Often we deal with national issues on the local level. This is a very critical one. The Department of Agriculture is important in reducing hunger around the country including Jefferson County. The viability of local farming is also critical.

Currently the Fed is going through some radical budget and program cuts which will have devastating effects on families here. Hundreds of families that rely on our local food banks. What is the source of this food? A significant amount comes from a federal program called TFAP. The program delivers food to every county in the country. That food has to be delivered to a local warehouse who then disperses it to the food banks. Ours is run by Olycap. They also received other grants for other food programs helping Seniors, kids, and local non profits. Many of these are on the chopping block as well. While we can donate locally, which I hope you do, it is insufficient to cover the needs of our neighbors. I urge you to call your Representatives and Senators, as well as the local parties and urge them to apply pressure to keep the food coming so that our neighbors can have enough food to eat. Show your humanity, your “love of the stranger,” etc... Be active in trying to protect the funding for food programs that support the family next door and our local farmers. This should not be a political divide, should not be considered “waste, fraud, or abuse.” It is important that we unite behind feeding people in need.

Thank you for caring about our neighbors.

David Johnson

Port Townsend