After a successful test run this past summer at two stores in New York City, Costco Wholesale will accept food stamps at least half of its stores by Thanksgiving, including its 23 stores in Washington.

About 420,000 families receive food stamps in Washington, up 30 percent from a year ago.

Before the New York pilots, Costco execs were skeptical that any of their customers would use food stamps. However, the tests showed that they would if given the opportunity.

“The rules are different today,” CEO Jim Sinegal said. “People who were in good shape financially all of the sudden are needing some assistance.”