Supporting Our Community During a Time of Increased Food Insecurity

As the federal government shutdown continues, many families and community members are facing disruptions to critical assistance programs like SNAP and WIC. Additionally, numerous federal employees have gone without pay since the shutdown began, increasing the risk of food insecurity for children and families across our region.

At the YMCA, we are committed to supporting our neighbors during this challenging time. Below are some resources, both YMCA-sponsored and community-based, that can help ensure access to nutritious meals. Please share these widely to help connect those in need with available support.

YMCA-Sponsored Meal and Food Pantry Programs 

These programs are open to anyone in the community.

• Ronald Commons Cafe 
  Hot, sit-down meals with take-out options 
  When: Thursdays, 5:30–6:30 pm (or earlier if meals run out) 
  Where: Ronald United Methodist Church, 17839 Aurora Ave N, Shoreline 
   
• POPYs Cafe 
  Hot, takeaway meals only 
  When: Wednesdays, 5:00–6:00 pm (or earlier if meals run out 
  Where: Prince of Peace Lutheran Church, 14514 20th Ave NE, Shoreline 
   
• University Sunday Meal 
  Take-away sack lunches and a clothing rack (when available) 
  When: Sundays, 12:00–2:00 pm (or earlier if meals run out) 
  Where: University Family YMCA, 5003 12th Ave NE, Seattle 
   
• Pantry of Hope 
  Walk-up pop-up food pantry 
  When: Fridays, 1:00–3:00 pm (or earlier if supplies run out) 
  Where: Kent YMCA Branch, 10828 SE 248th St, Kent, WA 98030

Additional Community Resources 

We also encourage you to explore local food assistance programs and map the resources closest to your community for easy access:

• Food Lifeline Resource Map 
  Find local food banks, meal programs, and other food assistance points: https://foodlifeline.org/find-food
   
• Meals Partnership Coalition Resource Map  
  Lists programs offering ready-to-eat meals in a variety of formats (take-away, dine-in, etc.):  https://www.mealspartnership.org/meal-provider-map

The YMCA Food Access team is here to support our community and our staff during this time. If you have questions or need assistance connecting with local resources, please connect with us at foodaccess@seattleymca.org.

Together, we can ensure that everyone has access to the food, care, and connection they need. If you’re able to lend a hand by donating, your support helps us reach even more neighbors in need. Donate Now – Help Fill the Gap >