BECOMING ANTI-RACIST
Thanks for being part of our advocacy team and for being willing to help us address hunger and its root causes. It’s been a busy time since we last communicated. 

The administration’s efforts regarding public charge has, thankfully, met some roadblocks but I am sure the attacks on some of our neighbors is not over. Tens of thousands have commented on proposed changes to SNAP and, even if we aren’t victorious, it’s never been more important to make sure our voices are heard. 

And, we just had local elections. In the near future we will be working to host visits with our local elected.  What do you think we should tell or ask them when they visit our food bank?  Seriously, send us your suggestions.  

Thanks for being part of the BFB Advocacy Team ! If you know of others who might be interested, pass this on so our collective voice can be even louder!
 
-Mike
TAKING ACTION
PUBLIC CHARGE RULING UPDATE

The Trump Administration's " public charge" ruling was blocked from taking affect on October 15 via temporary injunctions nationwide. Thanks to all who made comments!

SNAP

The USDA's proposed rule on  SNAP Standardization of State Heating and Cooling Standard Utility Allowances  would cut program benefits by $4.5 billion over five years as a result of changes in how states account for household utility costs. This would punish people living with low-income and harm the economy.

To speak out against this proposal, make a public comment here until December 2.
LOCAL ENGAGEMENT
Community 2 Community: Dignity Dialogue

 November 19 | 6 pm
@Bellingham Unitarian Fellowship, 1207 Ellsworth St

Join us for a follow up conversation with Enoka Herat from the ACLU to look at the recent ordinance passed by the City of Bellingham to establish a workgroup which will review immigration policy and make specific legislative recommendations. We will discuss how the work group fits into the Keep Washington Working Act, where the gaps are, and how the community can work to fill in those gaps.
Public Comment Webinars

November 22 | 1-2 pm
November 26 | 9:30-10:30 am

Food Lifeline Advocacy Coordinator, Amanda Reeves, will be hosting Public Comment 101 Webinars to answer the questions " What is public comment? Why it is   important? How do I complete a comment ?"
 
As we have seen with the recent Public Charge litigation, public comments were an import tool for blocking legislation that could leave more of our neighbors hungry. With proposed rule changes to SNAP eligibility, it is a good time to sharpen our commenting skills. This is our direct line to federal policy.
 
To Access the Webinar:
Join the training via Zoom at:   foodlifeline.zoom.us/j/8086648759  
Meeting ID: 808 664 8759. 
FOOD APARTHEID
We believe in access to nutritious food for all. How do corporate grocery chains affect food access locally?

Read: