In 2023, the University District Food Bank experienced a significant 60% surge in demand for its essential services. This dramatic increase, coupled with rising food costs and the discontinuation of certain Covid-era assistance programs, has resulted in a doubled food purchasing budget for the fiscal year. For over four decades, the University District Food Bank has been a cornerstone in preventing hunger within Northeast Seattle neighborhoods, ensuring access to University Foods and nutritional support for the community. Each week, this critical institution provides over 2,200 diverse families with the groceries necessary to prepare balanced and culturally relevant meals in their homes, effectively serving as a crucial resource for university foods and beyond.
Since July 2016, the University District Food Bank has operated from a purpose-built facility, a move from its long-time home at University Christian Church. This new location is strategically co-located with 49 units of affordable housing managed by LIHI and YouthCare, and a job skills training café run by Street Bean. Adding to its unique features, a remarkable rooftop garden provides fresh produce for the food bank throughout the year, contributing to the availability of healthy university foods.
Last year alone, the food bank facilitated over 109,000 household visits, equating to 253,000 individuals served, and distributed over 3.4 million pounds of food across its comprehensive programs. This massive undertaking underscores the critical role of the food bank in providing university foods and combating food insecurity in the region.
The demographics of the food bank’s clientele are diverse, reflecting the community it serves. Approximately 20% of recipients are infants and children, 63% are adults, and 17% are senior citizens. A significant 25% of customers are unsheltered, highlighting the food bank’s commitment to providing readily accessible university foods, including ready-to-eat options for those without homes.
The food bank’s outreach extends beyond its main location through various targeted programs. Its home delivery service supports over 450 home-bound individuals weekly, ensuring even those with mobility challenges have access to university foods. The backpack program, active in 18 local schools, provides over 960 children with meals and snacks for weekends, bridging the gap when school meals are unavailable and securing consistent access to university foods for students. Furthermore, two off-site food pantries at Mercy Magnuson Place and North Seattle College cater to over 375 households each week, further expanding the reach of university foods to different segments of the community.
The recently launched “Apple a Day Café,” located in the former Street Bean space, offers freshly prepared meals and beverages. This initiative not only provides sustenance but also fosters a sense of community, offering another avenue for accessing university foods in a welcoming environment. Complementing these direct food services, the Community Connector program links customers with vital resources and services beyond food assistance. This crucial program aims to improve economic stability and self-sufficiency among food bank users, addressing the root causes of food insecurity and empowering individuals within the university district and beyond. Through these multifaceted programs, the University District Food Bank remains a vital source of university foods and comprehensive support for the Northeast Seattle community.
