More Than Groceries: YES Partners Help Keep Youth Fed

Food is a basic need—but for a young person experiencing homelessness, having enough food isn’t always a given.

That’s why we’re so grateful to welcome two new partners to the YES community: Rotella’s Italian Bakery and Hiland Dairy. Through their weekly donations, young people visiting YES’ Drop-In Center can take home fresh staples like bread, milk, and eggs to help keep food on the table throughout the week.

Every week, Rotella’s donates up to 30 loaves of bread and/or pastries, while Hiland provides more than 30 gallons of milk and 30 dozen eggs. A member of the YES team picks up the donations and brings them to our Drop-In Center at 2602 Harney Street, where youth can access groceries alongside the other resources they need.

For youth experiencing instability or homelessness, food support can be about much more than the meal itself. It can mean having something to eat after a long day, having groceries to take home, or knowing there will be something in the refrigerator tomorrow.

At YES, our Drop-In Center is a place where young people can meet immediate needs while connecting with longer-term support. In addition to food and pantry access, youth can enjoy a warm meal, take a hot shower, do laundry, pick up clothing, and connect with resources and staff who are ready to help.

Partnerships like these help make that support possible. We’re incredibly grateful to Rotella’s and Hiland for helping us meet a basic need and reminding our young people that their community cares about them.

Want to help youth meet their basic needs? Learn more about YES and the ways you can support youth experiencing homelessness at Support Our Work — Youth Emergency Services.