The Essential Needs Coalition is a group of non-profits and community organizations advocating together for more complete, dignified essential needs assistance at the Washington State level and beyond. The Essential Needs Coalition is convened monthly in partnership between Essentials First, Poverty Action Network, and Farmer Frog.

2026 Washington State Legislative Session Policy Prioirites

1. Advocating to protect funding for existing essential needs programming

2. Addressing the high cost of commissary products in DOC facilities and lack of subsidized essential hygiene products for people incarcerated in Washington, resulting in unjust debt and financial hardship for families.

3. Sales and use tax exemption on hygiene essentials statewide