We have so much to give thanks for

In Central Washington, we have so much to be thankful for. This Thanksgiving, as we come together with our friends and family, don’t forget to take a moment to give thanks to our hard-working farmers, processors, and food bank workers throughout Central Washington who work to provide the food on our plates.

From the turkey to the stuffing, our farmers probably played a part in your Thanksgiving dinners. Many of the potatoes, onions, winegrapes and other Thanksgiving favorites you consume were grown right here in Central Washington, making up a delicious dinner while supporting our local economies. A lot of hard work goes into getting the food from the farm to the table, and even through supply chain issues, a shortage of farm labor, and unyielding weather conditions, our farmers have continued to prove just how resilient Central Washington is.

We also cannot forget the men and women who work behind the scenes, the processors, transporters, and grocery store workers who work to ensure food stays stocked on the shelves as our food supply chain fluctuates. With their help, Central Washington’s farmers and ranchers are able to distribute thousands of pounds of food to families across our state, our country, and even the globe! Additionally, our food banks and the volunteers who staff them are working around the clock to make sure everyone in our community is able to enjoy a warm Thanksgiving meal this year.

Despite the challenges that our community has faced, we still come together and have a lot to be thankful for. Whatever your family tradition is for Thanksgiving, I hope you gather to enjoy quality time filled with laughter, love, and community.

I am extremely grateful to live in and represent Central Washington and be your voice in Congress each day. From my family to yours, I wish you a happy and healthy Thanksgiving.