Feb. 5, 2026 – Redmond, Wash. SoulFood Coffeehouse has launched a new community pantry aimed at improving food access and supporting residents facing financial hardship, marking another step in the employee-owned café’s ongoing efforts to give back to the Redmond community.
The pantry, which has been under development for several months, was built with the help of Nourishing Network, whose members donated funding, labor, and materials to construct the pantry from scratch. The pantry is now installed inside SoulFood Coffeehouse, located near the café’s community bulletin board.
SoulFood Coffeehouse emphasized that the pantry is open to everyone, regardless of circumstance.
Café representatives noted that rising grocery prices, SNAP benefit disruptions, layoffs, and increasing living costs have left many community members struggling to meet basic needs.
They mentioned,
“As an employee-owned business, we understand firsthand how difficult it can be to make ends meet. This pantry is here for anyone who needs it.”
The pantry focuses on non-perishable food items and hygiene products, including items not covered by SNAP benefits such as soap and feminine hygiene supplies. Community members interested in donating are encouraged to check expiration dates and visit the café directly to learn what items are most needed.
In addition to donations, SoulFood is asking residents to help by spreading the word, emphasizing that the pantry is meant to be well-used and serve as a consistent resource for those in need.
Community reaction to the initiative has been overwhelmingly positive. Dozens of residents expressed support in comments on social media, praising the café for its compassion and commitment to community care. Several commenters noted that projects like the pantry are what make SoulFood more than just a coffee shop.
One community member shared plans to promote the pantry through a local writers group, while others thanked the café for creating a welcoming space for people experiencing temporary or ongoing hardship.
SoulFood Coffeehouse said it will continue developing resources to clearly outline pantry needs and ensure it remains stocked and accessible to the community.
