Seattle and Tacoma Restaurants Provide Free Meals Amid SNAP Uncertainty

As uncertainty looms over the future of the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), local restaurants in Seattle and Tacoma are stepping up to provide free meals to families in need. The program is anticipated to face funding shortages beginning on November 1, 2025, due to a federal government shutdown.

Murat Akyuz, cofounder of Toasted Bagels & Coffee, emphasized the personal impact of SNAP on his family. “My family relied on SNAP benefits. Jaafar’s, our cofounder, family relied on SNAP benefits when we were young,” Akyuz stated. In King County alone, over 200,000 residents depend on SNAP, while another 118,000 utilize the program in Pierce County. In total, nearly one million people across Washington State receive assistance through SNAP.

Inspired by a similar initiative in Portland, Toasted’s locations in South Lake Union and the University District are offering free meals, including bagels and drinks, to families affected by the potential loss of their monthly aid. “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.

Toasted has committed to covering the first 100 meals, after which it will rely on community donations to sustain the program. Akyuz noted that the overwhelming support following their initial social media announcement has resulted in the ‘Neighbor’s Tab’ program raising over $45,000 in just four days, enough to serve approximately 9,000 meals. “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 added.

In Tacoma, Radnor’s Burgers & Beignets is also joining the effort to assist families facing food insecurity. General Manager Irving Amezcua explained that their ‘Neighbor’s Tab’ approach aims to prevent any feelings of embarrassment. “There’s a sense of, ‘Man, I don’t want to announce that I’m struggling,'” Amezcua said. He encourages customers to request free meals without fear of judgment.

All proceeds from Radnor’s program will directly support community members experiencing hunger, regardless of when SNAP benefits may be reinstated. Amezcua recounted a moving interaction with a hesitant mother seeking assistance. “I kind of pulled her off to the side and said there’s nothing to be ashamed of,” he reflected.

Both restaurants are urging the community to donate not only to their initiatives but also to local food banks, as they work to mitigate the impact of SNAP funding uncertainty. As the government shutdown continues to affect American families, these local businesses are embodying a spirit of solidarity and support, ensuring that no one in their communities goes hungry.