"MLK Day has always been described to me as a Day of Service, not a day off."
Tori, a member of the Electrical Workers Minority Caucus (EWMC), shared this powerful sentiment. Ahead of the federal holiday celebrating the renowned civil rights activist and religious leader Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., a team of 40 union electrical workers joined our crew onsite at the food bank to help serve our community.
Read MoreThe Washington State legislative session for 2026 is currently underway. As an even year, the legislative session will be a 60-day short session with an expected end date of March 12th. Lawmakers will be introducing, debating, and amending new laws as well as balancing the budget. (Find out how a bill becomes law here.)
Read MoreHappy holidays to you and your loved ones! May this season be filled with health, happiness, and connection.
At Ballard Food Bank we know that food is a human right AND a powerful vehicle for joy, kinship, and celebration. So we asked folks this month what special foods are warm, nostalgic and/or meaningful to them. We are honored to share the traditions of those who make our Hub for Hope so vibrant.
Read MoreWith the end of the government shutdown in November, SNAP benefit payments resumed. But the threat of hunger for families and individuals relying on SNAP is far from over.
New requirements and changes to the program make it harder for veterans, former foster youth who are aging out of care, and people experiencing homelessness - among others - to get the food they need. And cuts to federal funding will leave states scrambling.
Gail enjoys a brisk, sunny day in British Columbia on the day we chat over the phone. She’s on a mini vacation with her chiweenie, Churro. In Ballard, it’s gray and cloudy.
Preceding this conversation over the phone about the food bank, Gail and I met virtually through a Buy Nothing group on Facebook in October when we set out to combine funds to cover a neighbor’s shopping expenses while SNAP benefits were in limbo.
Read MorePlease note that we have special hours for the last two weeks of December.
We will be open late (until 7PM) instead of closing at 4PM on Monday the 22nd and Monday the 29th. The last two Tuesdays will have regular hours.
We will be closed for both Wednesday and Thursday of the last two weeks in December.
Read MoreA good neighbor looks out for others, shares in abundance, and has a genuine interest in the wellbeing of those around them. So many of our local businesses and community groups exemplify what it means to be a neighbor helping neighbors.
They are amazing neighbors to us. We recognize and deeply appreciate their efforts to improve the wellbeing of all who live in our community. Often, they hit what we call our trifecta of support: Food, funds, and time.
Read More"Dearest and respected Ballard Food Bank team – I am writing this letter that is filled with joy for the fact that I have succeeded with your help ever since coming to the food bank!"
This is how Teddy S. starts his letter to our community. Teddy is a long-time shopper and Kindness Café enjoyer. In the past, he’s kept to himself during his visits. Thanks to his letter introduction, we have now come to know the passionate and gracious person he is!
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