As the potential shutdown of the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) looms, restaurants in Seattle and Tacoma are stepping up to offer free meals to families in need. The program is expected to face funding shortfalls starting on November 1, 2025, due to ongoing federal budget disputes.
Murat Akyuz, cofounder of Toasted Bagels & Coffee in Seattle, has personal connections to the challenges that families face. “My family relied on SNAP benefits. Jaafar’s, our cofounder, family relied on SNAP benefits when we were young,” Akyuz stated. With over 200,000 people in King County and an additional 118,000 people in Pierce County relying on SNAP, the impact of potential cuts could be devastating. Across Washington state, nearly one million people receive assistance through this crucial program.
In response to the anticipated cuts, Toasted has launched a “Neighbor’s Tab” initiative, inspired by a similar program in Portland. The busy locations in South Lake Union and the University District are now offering free meals, including bagels and drinks, to local families facing hardship. Akyuz explained, “If they just say, ‘Hey, can I put this order on my neighbor’s tab?’ No questions asked, we will provide them the meal for free.” Toasted has pledged to cover the first 100 free meals, after which they will rely on donations to sustain the program.
The community response has been encouraging. In just four days after their initial social media announcement, the program raised over $45,000, which is estimated to cover meals for approximately 9,000 people. “It’s just so awesome to see that people are looking out for their neighbor when the systems that we’ve built around us aren’t,” Akyuz remarked. He also encouraged donors to support local food banks to further aid those in need.
In Tacoma, Radnor’s Burgers & Beignets has adopted a similar approach with its own “Neighbor’s Tab” initiative. General manager Irving Amezcua emphasized the importance of reducing the stigma associated with requesting help. “There’s a sense of, ‘Man, I don’t want to announce that I’m struggling,'” he explained. This program allows families to discreetly receive meals without feeling shame.
Amezcua shared a poignant story of a mother who hesitated to ask for help. “I kind of pulled her off to the side and said there’s nothing to be ashamed of,” he recounted, noting how emotional these interactions can be. All proceeds from Radnor’s will directly support community members facing hunger, regardless of when SNAP benefits may be restored.
The proactive measures taken by these restaurants highlight the urgent need for community support in times of uncertainty. As federal funding for SNAP hangs in the balance, local initiatives like these aim to ensure that no one in the community goes hungry.
