If you have seen people in military uniforms about town this past week, it may be the U.S. National Guard. And they are here to help our food banks!
In recent weeks, 252 members of the U.S. National Guard have been working in food distribution centers, serving food, and supporting food banks at locations across the City. Due to the impacts of COVID-19, several food banks have faced food shortages, reduced their hours, or lacked volunteer support due to social distancing. This situation has been difficult for community members who depend on their services.
To help address these challenges, the City connected the U.S. National Guard with service providers to help with staffing and supply delivery. U.S. National Guard servicemembers are helping Food Lifeline, who partners with both Northwest Harvest and Second Harvest organizations, operate its 160,000 square foot distribution center, staffing 10 food banks, including Solid Ground, and serving meals at Edible Hope at St. Luke’s in Ballard Commons.
“What you’re seeing are your neighbors out here helping to distribute food to those around Seattle, so we’re really excited to be here and be a part of that mission.”
– Lt. Matthew Sutherland
Here is a list of the additional food banks assisted by the National Guard:
- Byrd Barr Place
- St. Vincent de Paul Georgetown
- White Center Food Bank
- Queen Anne Food Bank
- Salvation Army – Capitol Hill
- Ballard Food Bank
- West Seattle Food Bank
- Puget Sound Labor Agency
- U District Food Bank
- Solid Ground
The National Guard service members will be here through Friday, May 29. If you see them, thank them for their service in helping our neighbors facing food insecurities.
For more information on food bank locations and operating hours, please visit the Food Resource Interactive Map.
Need more information? Please contact:
- National Guard – Joseph Siemandel at 253-512-8989
- Food Lifeline – Chris Nishiwaki at chrisn@foodlifeline.org
- City of Seattle – HSDCovidInfo@Seattle.gov