As rising food costs and cuts to federal assistance place additional pressure on families, a grassroots effort powered by bicycles and volunteers has reached a major milestone in Seattle. Cascade Bicycle Club’s Pedaling Relief Project, which partners with Byrd Barr Place and other community organizations, has transported 2 million pounds of rescued food and essential goods to help residents facing food insecurity.
At the heart of the effort is a network of local food banks, including the historic Byrd Barr Place Food Bank in Seattle’s Central District. Operating from Firehouse 23, Byrd Barr Place has a long history of helping people move from poverty toward economic stability while working to strengthen the economic and political power of Washington’s Black community.
Through its partnership with the Pedaling Relief Project, Byrd Barr Place receives fresh produce and other donated food that might otherwise go to waste, helping the organization serve families struggling with rising grocery prices and other household expenses…