KIRKLAND, Wash. — The U.S. Department of Agriculture plans to resume food assistance for millions of Americans, but benefits will return at about half their usual amount, leaving food banks scrambling to meet growing demand.

At Hopelink’s Kirkland Food Market and warehouse, donations have been pouring in as volunteers work to fill shelves with staples like rice, oats, pasta, and canned vegetables.

The market’s freezer section is also stocked and ready to serve families in need.

“This is our central warehouse, and it’s instrumental for sorting all the donations that are pouring into our markets,” said warehouse manager Zackary Hoernlein. “In the past week, we’ve had thousands of pounds of donations from community members making sure that all of our shoppers have enough food.”

Hopelink

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