Seattle Nonprofit Mobilizes Home Bakers to Combat Hunger Crisis

In a significant effort to address food insecurity, Seattle-based nonprofit Community Loaves has mobilized home bakers to supply fresh bread to local food banks. On a recent Saturday, volunteer Cheryl Ewaldsen baked three loaves of golden wheat bread, which she donated to the Edmonds Food Bank. This initiative not only provides nourishing food but also fosters a sense of community among those in need.

Since its inception during the COVID-19 pandemic, Community Loaves has delivered over 200,000 loaves of bread and approximately 220,000 energy cookies to food pantries across four states: Washington, Oregon, California, and Idaho. The organization, led by former culinary school dean Katherine Kehrli, has created a network of nearly 900 bakers who contribute to one of the largest grassroots food donation efforts in the United States.

Rising Demand for Nutritious Food Aid

The need for nutritious baked goods has surged as federal funding for food assistance programs faces cuts and grocery prices continue to rise. Kehrli stated, “Most of our food banks do not receive any kind of whole-grain sandwich bread donation. When we ask what we could do better, they just say, ‘Bring us more.’” The Edmonds Food Bank has seen its client list grow from 350 households to nearly 1,000 households over the past three years, underscoring the increasing demand for food assistance.

According to Feeding America, more than 50 million people annually rely on charitable food assistance in the United States. Anti-hunger experts are warning that this number is likely to rise due to recent federal legislation that significantly cuts food aid. The Congressional Budget Office estimates that the new tax and spending cuts will disqualify around 3 million people from receiving food stamps, also known as SNAP benefits.

The U.S. Agriculture Department’s decision to discontinue its annual report on hunger in America has raised concerns among advocates. Crystal FitzSimons, president of the Food Research & Action Center, commented, “Ending data collection will not end hunger; it will only make it a hidden crisis that is easier to ignore and more difficult to address.”

Community Impact and Personal Stories

As federal funding decreases—reportedly dropping by at least 10% this year for the Edmonds Food Bank—donations become even more critical. Program manager Lester Almanza emphasized that every contribution counts.

For individuals like Chris Redfearn and his wife, Melanie Rodriguez-Redfearn, the food bank has been a vital resource. After relocating to Everett, Washington, they relied on the food bank while transitioning to new employment. “The food pantry assists with anywhere from $40 to $80 worth of savings weekly,” Chris Redfearn noted, highlighting the importance of these donations in helping families sustain themselves.

The couple expressed surprise at finding homemade bread from Community Loaves at their local food pantry. They noted that most surplus bread donations from grocery stores consist of highly processed white breads or products nearing expiration. The loaves from Community Loaves, available in varieties like honey oat, whole wheat, and sunflower rye, are made from whole grains and minimally processed ingredients, providing a healthier alternative.

Kehrli’s initiative stemmed from her passion for baking and a desire to help those in need. Despite many food pantries not accepting homemade baked goods due to health regulations, the laws in Washington and three other states allow for bread donations from home kitchens. Kehrli explained, “We wouldn’t be able to donate custard pies or lasagna, but bread is deemed safe—anything that is fully baked and does not require refrigeration.”

Bakers with Community Loaves adhere to approved recipes, using common sources for flour and coordinating baking and delivery schedules. Each baker covers their ingredient expenses and donates their time, creating a collective effort that ranges from seasoned professionals to novice bakers. The organization provides resources, including recipes and instructional videos, to support participants.

Ewaldsen, who has donated nearly 800 loaves in less than two years, finds fulfillment in her contributions. She reflects, “It’s the opportunity for me to bake something and to share something with others in the community.” While such grassroots efforts are commendable, experts emphasize the necessity for robust government support for food assistance programs, arguing that individual donations cannot replace adequately funded services.

Gina Plata-Nino from the Food Research & Action Center stated, “It is beautiful that our communities act this way, but a loaf of bread is just one small part of a much larger issue. There are millions in line who need help.”

As Community Loaves continues its mission, the impacts of both individual and collaborative efforts are felt throughout the community, highlighting the vital role of food banks and the need for ongoing support in the fight against hunger.