In Bellevue, a vital resource is helping to ensure that no one in our community goes without nutritious meals. Hopelink’s Food Program operates a network of five food markets, including one conveniently located right here in Bellevue. This program offers a unique approach to food assistance, allowing enrolled clients to shop for groceries completely free of charge, selecting items that best suit their family’s tastes and dietary needs. It’s a dignified and empowering way to access food, making a real difference in the lives of many residents.
The program’s mission extends beyond simply providing food; it aims to support families and individuals facing food insecurity by offering choice and variety. The food markets function much like a regular grocery store, where clients can browse shelves stocked with a range of staples, produce, and other essential items. This client-choice model respects individual preferences and helps reduce food waste by ensuring that people take home what they will actually use. Hopelink’s commitment to the Bellevue community is evident in its accessible and thoughtfully designed food assistance services.
To take advantage of Hopelink’s Food Program, individuals and families must first be enrolled in the Food Assistance Program. For those new to the program, an online application is available, offering a straightforward way to get started. Existing clients who need to renew their enrollment, which is required every 12 months, can do so by scheduling a phone appointment or an in-person visit at their local Hopelink center. Once enrolled, scheduling a time to visit one of the food markets is also managed through calling the local center or by making arrangements during a food shopping visit.
The enrollment process is designed to be as accessible as possible. Hopelink understands that not everyone has consistent internet access, so phone and in-person appointment options are readily available for both new enrollments and renewals. This ensures that the program can reach a wider audience, including seniors and those who may face technological barriers. The goal is to make the initial step of accessing food assistance as smooth and stress-free as possible for all members of the community.
The Bellevue Hopelink Food Market is located at 14812 Main St, Bellevue, WA 98007. The market offers various hours throughout the week to accommodate different schedules, including evening hours on Mondays and Thursdays. While appointments are encouraged to help manage flow, walk-in hours are available during the last hour of each day’s operation, providing flexibility for those who can’t commit to a specific appointment time. Volunteers and staff are on hand to answer any questions and assist shoppers.
When visiting the Bellevue market, shoppers are encouraged to bring their own reusable bags to carry their groceries. Each shopper has a 15-minute window to select their items, which helps ensure that everyone gets a chance to shop and reduces overall wait times. While masks are encouraged, they are not required for shoppers. Families are welcome to shop at the market up to two times per month, and patience and respect for fellow shoppers, volunteers, and staff are always appreciated during visits.
Header Image Source: Alexander Van Steenberge on Unsplash
