WFC Toolkits and Guides
We’re thrilled to share a growing library of practical, easy-to-use resources created to strengthen your work and support success across Washington’s emergency food network. From food safety and procurement to serving seniors and meeting special dietary needs, these guides are designed to help you serve your community with confidence and care. You can download a digital copy of each guide or toolkit below or request a physical copy using the form linked below.
All resources are made possible through the Statewide Technical Assistance and Training Grant, supported by the Washington State Department of Agriculture (WSDA) Food Assistance.
Best Practices Manual
The Best Practices manual is a collection of innovative approaches and ideas from food programs across Washington. It highlights creative strategies shared by peers - representing organizations of varying sizes, geographies, and structures - to inspire collaboration and build shared capacity in the emergency food network.
Food Banking 101 Manual
The Food Banking manual serves as an introduction to the essential operations of running a food program. From intake and inventory to volunteer management and community partnerships, this guide helps new staff and volunteers understand the foundations of effective food banking.
Food Safety Manual
The Food Safety manual provides key guidance for maintaining high safety standards in food handling, storage, and distribution. It’s designed to help food programs ensure client safety and compliance with state and federal regulations.
Digital version coming soon!
Senior Nutrition Toolkit
The Senior Nutrition Toolkit supports food programs serving older adults with guidance on dietary needs, practical tips, and online resources. Developed with community partners and SNAP-Ed funding, it’s a valuable tool for strengthening senior nutrition services.
Special Dietary Needs Toolkit
The Special Dietary Needs Toolkit offers practical tips and resources for accommodating clients with food allergies, intolerances, or other dietary restrictions. Available in both English and Spanish, this guide supports equitable access to nutritious foods for all community members.
Food Purchasing Guide
This guide is a google sheet compiling small farms and local food producers across the state. It helps food assistance organizations easily connect with and source fresh, local products to support community food systems. The guide streamlines purchasing by providing contact details, product availability, and farm specialties all in one place.
Grant Opportunities Guide
This guide is a google sheet compiling funding prospects to help food programs secure support. It includes curated lists of food aid funders, community foundations and more across Washington state. Organized by alignment and geography, this resource makes it easier for organizations to find and connect with potential funders.