As federal funding for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) faces imminent depletion, restaurants in Seattle and Tacoma are stepping up to offer free meals to families in need. The funding is expected to run out starting on November 1, 2025, due to a federal government shutdown, leaving many low-income families without essential food assistance.
The cofounders of Toasted Bagels & Coffee in Seattle have taken action in response to this crisis. Murat Akyuz shared that both he and cofounder Jaafar relied on SNAP benefits during their childhoods. This personal connection drives their commitment to support the community during this challenging time. “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,” Akyuz explained. The initiative aims to reduce any stigma associated with seeking assistance.
The potential disruption to SNAP affects over 200,000 people in King County alone, with an additional 118,000 recipients in Pierce County. In total, nearly one million individuals in Washington state depend on this crucial program for their nutritional needs.
Toasted’s locations in South Lake Union and the University District have launched a ‘Neighbor’s Tab’ program, inspired by similar efforts in Portland. They initially promised to cover the first 100 free meals, but the response has been overwhelming, raising over $45,000 in just four days. This amount is sufficient to provide approximately 9,000 meals to those affected.
“We’ve seen the community rallying together,” Akyuz noted. “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.” He encourages additional contributions to local food banks to further support families in need.
In Tacoma, Radnor’s Burgers & Beignets has adopted a similar approach. General Manager Irving Amezcua emphasized the importance of creating a comfortable environment for families seeking assistance. Their program also employs the ‘Neighbor’s Tab’ concept, allowing individuals to discreetly receive free meals. “There’s a sense of, ‘Man, I don’t want to announce that I’m struggling,'” Amezcua remarked. “So saying, ‘put it on my neighbor’s tab,’ it’s an easier way for them not to feel so shamed.”
Amezcua shared a poignant moment when a mother hesitated to ask for assistance. “I kind of pulled her off to the side and said there’s nothing to be ashamed of,” he recalled, illustrating the emotional impact of the current situation. Both establishments are committed to ensuring that no individual goes hungry, regardless of the ongoing uncertainty surrounding SNAP funding.
As the community grapples with the looming cuts to SNAP benefits, the actions of these restaurants highlight a growing trend of local businesses stepping in to fill the gaps left by government programs. The efforts of Toasted Bagels & Coffee and Radnor’s Burgers & Beignets serve as a reminder of the power of community solidarity during challenging times.
With the future of SNAP benefits still uncertain, these initiatives reflect a broader commitment to addressing food insecurity and supporting vulnerable populations.
