Branches of Washington INTRODUCTION Branches of Washington is a new initiative created by members of several Washington churches intended to help break the cycle of poverty for Washingtons families. In conversations with staff at all seven Washington schools a consistent concern is that many children struggle to make the best of their school years due to a lack of adequate housing transportation food or clothing. Branches primary focus is to help the children and youth of our community arrive at school each day ready to learn. While groups like Weekend Snackpac and Moms Who Care are doing great work for our kids and there are many other groups helping to address families larger food and clothing needs there are still gaps.