As uncertainty looms over the future of the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), restaurants in Seattle and Tacoma are stepping up to support families in need. Beginning on November 1, 2025, funding for SNAP benefits is expected to run dry due to a federal government shutdown, prompting local businesses to take action.
At Toasted Bagels & Coffee in Seattle, cofounder Murat Akyuz announced that the establishment will provide free meals to families affected by the potential loss of benefits. Akyuz shared that both he and cofounder Jaafar relied on SNAP benefits during their childhoods, making this initiative particularly personal. “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 stated.
Community Support and Fundraising Efforts
Toasted Bagels has implemented a “Neighbor’s Tab” program, modeled after a similar initiative in Portland. Their locations in South Lake Union and the University District have already seen a surge of community support. In just four days, the program raised over $45,000, which Akyuz estimates is enough to serve 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,” he remarked.
Initially, Toasted will cover the first 100 free meals, after which they will depend on donations to continue assisting families in need. Akyuz is now encouraging patrons to also contribute to local food banks, emphasizing the importance of community engagement in times of crisis.
Similarly, Radnor’s Burgers & Beignets in Tacoma is offering free meals, including burgers, fries, and apples, to families facing financial challenges due to the potential SNAP disruption. General Manager Irving Amezcua explained that the restaurant aims to create a comfortable environment for those seeking assistance. “There’s a sense of, ‘Man, I don’t want to announce that I’m struggling,’” Amezcua said. “So saying, ‘put it on my neighbor’s tab,’ it’s an easier way for them not to feel so shamed.”
The Broader Impact of SNAP Uncertainty
Currently, over 200,000 people in King County and 118,000 people in Pierce County rely on SNAP benefits. Across Washington State, nearly one million residents depend on this vital food assistance program. The looming shutdown has raised concerns about how families will cope if funding is cut. The Trump administration has stated that it cannot legally use contingency funds for SNAP, as those funds are earmarked for disaster relief.
As restaurants mobilize to provide essential support, the community’s response has been overwhelmingly positive. “We had a family come in, and you could tell the mom was very unsure of how to do this stuff,” Amezcua recounted. “I kind of pulled her off to the side and said there’s nothing to be ashamed of.” His emotional connection to the families they are helping underscores the vital role local businesses play in times of need.
Both Toasted Bagels & Coffee and Radnor’s Burgers & Beignets represent just a fraction of the efforts seen across Washington State as organizations strive to ensure that no one goes hungry, even amidst uncertainty regarding SNAP benefits. Their initiatives highlight the power of community support in addressing food insecurity during challenging times.
