As the federal government shutdown looms, American families face a significant loss of support through the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). Starting on November 1, 2025, funding for SNAP is expected to run dry, prompting restaurants in Seattle and Tacoma to step in and offer free meals to those affected.
Murat Akyuz, cofounder of Toasted Bagels & Coffee in Seattle, has a personal connection to the crisis. “My family relied on SNAP benefits. Jaafar’s, our cofounder, family relied on SNAP benefits when we were young,” he shared. The urgency of the situation is underscored by the fact that over 200,000 people in King County and approximately 118,000 people in Pierce County depend on SNAP for their daily sustenance. In total, nearly one million residents in Washington state receive assistance through the program.
In response to the impending cuts, Toasted Bagels & Coffee is implementing a “Neighbor’s Tab” initiative inspired by a similar program in Portland. Their locations in South Lake Union and the University District will provide free meals, bagels, and beverages to local families facing 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.
The restaurant has committed to covering the first 100 free meals, after which they will rely on donations to sustain the program. Akyuz noted that the initial response after their announcement on social media was overwhelmingly positive. Within just four days, the program raised over $45,000, 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.
Similarly, Radnor’s Burgers & Beignets in Tacoma is also participating in the effort to alleviate hunger in the community. General manager Irving Amezcua highlighted the importance of reducing shame for those in need. “There’s a sense of, ‘Man, I don’t want to announce that I’m struggling,'” he said. By framing the offer as “put it on my neighbor’s tab,” the restaurant aims to provide support without stigmatization.
All proceeds from Radnor’s will go directly to assisting community members facing hunger, regardless of when SNAP benefits may be restored. Amezcua shared a poignant moment when a hesitant mother came in for help. “I kind of pulled her off to the side and said there’s nothing to be ashamed of,” he recounted. “I’ve already teared up a couple of times.”
With nearly one million Washington residents at risk of losing vital food assistance, community initiatives like those from Toasted Bagels & Coffee and Radnor’s Burgers & Beignets demonstrate the power of local action in the face of systemic challenges. As the situation evolves, these restaurants and their patrons are stepping up to ensure that no one goes hungry in their communities.
