Basic Food Employment & Training (BFET)

Washington State administers the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), referred to as the Basic Food Program, as authorized by the Agricultural Act of 2014. States must provide employment and training services to Basic Food Program participants as a part of administering SNAP. Basic Food Employment & Training (BFET) is the SNAP Employment and Training (E&T) program in Washington State. USDA Food and Nutrition Service (FNS) provides the federal funding for BFET services and has oversight authority for SNAP E&T services.

The BFET program, administered by the Department of Social and Health Services (DSHS), is an important part of Washington State’s comprehensive workforce development system serving the needs of low-income individuals, displaced workers, and employers. The BFET program is committed to assist Basic Food recipients in achieving their human potential by encouraging economic well-being through skill acquisition and gainful employment.

The Employment Security Department contracts with DSHS to provide BFET program services at nine locations throughout the state: Colville, Columbia Basin, Okanogan, Skagit, Spokane, Vancouver, Walla Walla, Whatcom and Yakima.

BFET delivers individualized support for program participants facing multiple barriers to employment, including:

  • Comprehensive Case Management – personalized support to navigate resources and overcome employment barriers.
  • Job Search Assistance – personalized guidance including labor market information and career planning, tailored resume, cover letter, and interviewing support, and job retention services.
  • Life Skills – an immersive six-module workshop series that equips participants with essential life and soft skills across work readiness, effective communication, personal wellness, strength building, career development, and community engagement.
  • Supportive Services – assistance with basic needs like transportation assistance, work or interview clothing, personal hygiene, and other job-related supports to help participants gain and maintain new employment.

Eligibility:

  • Ages 16 or older
  • Able to participate at least 20 hours per week
  • Currently receiving federal food assistance (SNAP/EBT)
    • Participants receiving State-funded Food Assistance Program (FAP) are not eligible.
    • Participants receiving Temporary Assistance for Need Families (TANF) are not eligible.

Key Team Members 

James LauRae - Procedures/technical assistance/program questions - james.laurae@esd.wa.gov
Data/reports - LMAPSystemPerformance@esd.wa.gov 
Contracts/grants- ESDGPGrantsOffice@esd.wa.gov 
Policy Questions - SystemPolicy@esd.wa.gov