Supporting residents of unincorporated King County during the federal budget shutdown
Crossposted from King County Local Many families in unincorporated King County are facing an unexpected challenge: a lapse in SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) payments due to the federal government shutdown. This disruption directly impacts food security for people—including children—who receive SNAP assistance. Neighborhood food banks and meal programs across the region are expected to see a surge in demand. King County Executive Shannon Braddock recently directed $200,000 in discretionary funding to support 15 food banks in the unincorporated areas, where King County serves as the local government. Read more.
In recognition of our veterans
As Veterans Day approaches, the Employee Giving Program (EGP) extends gratitude to all people that have served. This holiday honors all U.S. military veterans for their discipline, commitment, and sacrifice in service of our country. We hope to show appreciation for those who have served and support veterans long-term following their service. Here are a few EGP nonprofits that support veterans and their families. Read more. To see the full list and discover more search online or review the 2025 Giving Guide of nonprofits by service category. Start or renew your pledge through Employee Giving on… Read More
King County to observe Veterans Day holiday Nov. 11
Most King County offices will be closed in observance of Veterans Day on Tuesday, Nov. 11. Due to the nature of our work, some services will continue as normal while others will operate on a reduced schedule. On Nov. 11, Metro Transit buses will operate on weekday schedules. If you have any questions about your schedule for Nov. 11, please talk to your supervisor. Veterans Day is our opportunity to thank our veterans for their service to our nation, and the contributions that they continue to bring to our communities. Services will return to… Read More
Native American Leadership Council: Celebrating Native American Heritage Month
November is Native American Heritage Month, a time to honor the histories, cultures, and enduring contributions of Native Peoples across the United States. It is also an opportunity to recognize the challenges that continue to affect Indigenous communities and to reaffirm our collective commitment to equity, respect, and partnership. The mission of the King County Native American Leadership Council (NALC) exists to create an entity where First Nations, indigenous people, and our allies can come together to build community, leadership, employee enrichment, and cultural preservation. Learn more about the Native American Leadership Council here…. Read More
Reductions to air traffic set to begin at Sea-Tac, other U.S. airports on Friday, Nov. 7
If you made flight reservations and plan to travel on county-related business on or after Friday, Nov. 7, please be aware that the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) announced plans to curb air traffic at 40 of the busiest U.S. airports by 10% due to concerns about staffing shortages of critical workers. Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (Sea-Tac) is among the affected airports, but delays and cancellations could impact air travel at other airports nationwide. Before traveling: Check your flight status regularly. Arrive early to allow extra time for security screening. If your flight is significantly delayed… Read More
Executive Braddock statement on voter approval of the King County Medic One/EMS Levy
King County Executive Shannon Braddock released a statement on the evening of the Nov. 4 election, thanking King County voters for their approval of the King County Medic One/EMS Levy. “Once again, King County residents have shown their overwhelming support for our Medic One/EMS system, which continues to set the standard for emergency medical response through innovation and exceptional patient outcomes. Our cardiac arrest survival rate is two to three times higher than most areas in the U.S.—a difference that can be measured in lives saved. I’m grateful to voters for ensuring… Read More
Discounted admission to Holiday Magic by The Fair
King County employees can now take advantage of an enchanting, family-friendly celebration for the holiday season. Holiday Magic admission includes dazzling lights displays and wintertime walk-throughs, festive food vendors, an indoor skating rink and holiday market, s’mores bar with fire pits, The YETI Bar (21+), plus free photo opportunities with classic characters, a holiday photo selfie studio, live animal manger, enchanting rides and more! Learn more here. See all available discounts on the Employee Discount intranet page.
EvergreenHealth remains in Regence network
Regence BlueShield and EvergreenHealth reached a contract agreement on Friday, Oct. 31, 2025. Services provided by EvergreenHealth providers, clinics, and facilities will continue to be considered in-network by Regence. If you are enrolled in a Regence medical plan and you see an EvergreenHealth provider, there will be no disruption to your coverage or benefits. For more information, see the Regence News post. If you have questions, please call Regence BlueShield at 800-376-7926 or contact the King County Benefits team at 206-684-1556 or email KC Benefits.
Employee Giving Program Nonprofits that are fighting hunger and building food security
The Employee Giving Program (EGP) and our Annual Giving Drive provide employees with tools to support food access for communities in moments of uncertainty and the long term. Food banks and pantries, meal programs, food distributors, community centers and other groups are currently preparing to significantly increase their service capacity which will require additional resources. Supporting these organizations by volunteering and donating requested items can address immediate needs around program funding and food supplies. Long term, material support will prepare these groups to replenish their current supplies and serve the growing demand. Here… Read More
Executive Braddock statement on King County’s response to federal government’s delayed SNAP funding
In response to the ongoing need for food security and hunger relief during the federal government shutdown, Executive Shannon Braddock issued the following statement: “The ongoing government shutdown has threatened the health and well-being of individuals and families, particularly those who rely on federal funding and programs for food security. I am heartened to see how strongly our region and state have responded to support those at risk of losing SNAP benefits, from individuals and community organizations to businesses and local governments. Their compassion and support show the strength of our communities… Read More
