Food Access
The Food Access team at YGS helps to build stronger communities, across King County, through programs and resources that support Nutrition and Connection.
Food Access at the YMCA
The YMCA of Greater Seattle’s Food Access team works across King County to strengthen communities by expanding access to healthy food and meaningful connection. Through partnerships and community-centered programs, we support youth, families, older adults, and neighbors experiencing food insecurity.
Our work includes:
- Food pantries providing groceries and essential food items
- Community meal sites offering sit-down and grab-and-go meals
- Grocery, produce box, and meal delivery for older adults and homebound neighbors
- Free meals and snacks for youth through federal nutrition programs at YMCA child care and before- and after-school sites
- Partnerships with PCC Community Markets and Food Lifeline supporting young adults at the Social Impact Center
- Collaboration and advocacy with community partners to strengthen local food systems
YMCA-Sponsored Meal and Food Pantry Programs
The following 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, 10828 SE 248th St, Kent
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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
Meals Partnership Coalition Resource Map
Lists programs offering ready-to-eat meals in a variety of formats (take-away, dine-in, etc.)
YMCA Community Navigator
YMCA Resource Navigators connect clients to food support, public benefits, healthcare, insurance, employment, housing, and more. Contact communityhub@seattleymca.org or call 360-376-2972 to speak with a Resource Navigator.
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Did you know that 1 in 9 people in Washington state experience hunger? At the YMCA of Greater Seattle, our Food Access team works alongside our community to ensure everyone has access to healthy food and meaningful connection. In 2025, through the Y’s food assistance programs, more than 566,000 meals have been provided to young people and their families.
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STAY ENGAGED WITH THE Y
Financial Assistance
The Y values the richness that diversity brings to our community and shared commitment to nurturing the potential of kids, improving health and well-being, and giving back. To ensure equitable access for all the Y offers affordable options at all of our 14 branches.
Are You Experiencing a Crisis?
For immediate assistance with a behavioral health crisis or a young person’s safety or shelter, call the King County 24-Hour Crisis Hotline at (866) 427-4747.
Make a Gift Today
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.
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