We need your help to keep shelves stocked!

For over 150 years, the YMCA at Virginia Tech has stood as a pillar of support in the New River Valley, addressing our community’s most pressing needs—from youth development and international outreach to food insecurity and sustainability. Today, we find ourselves facing a growing challenge that requires immediate action and we are committed to stepping up once again.

Initially planned for a Spring 2026 launch, we are fast-tracking the Corner Market initiative to respond swiftly to the current disruption in SNAP benefits. The original goal of the project was to create a mobile market to deliver fresh produce and essential food staples directly into low-income neighborhoods, allowing families to utilize SNAP benefits or pay appropriately for the items. However, the past 3 weeks have seen substantial increase in families participating in our food insecurity programs, underscoring the urgent need for action.

We have also received numerous calls and emails from concerned neighbors who are running out of options and food! The YMCA is ready to meet this need—just as we did during the COVID crisis when we rapidly expanded our Meals On Main program. With the groundwork we have already laid, the support of a dedicated student intern, and the strength of our community partnerships, we are prepared to launch this vital service immediately.

This acceleration comes as an additional measure to the Virginia Emergency Nutrition Assistance (VENA) initiative, an effort established to help bridge the gap in SNAP funding. While we commend the Commonwealth for this initiative, we recognize that it is a temporary solution—one that highlights the fragility of our food system and the pressing need for sustainable, local responses.

Although the Market is still in development, we are poised to activate this service right now. Y staff worked tirelessly over the weekend to transform a classroom at the Y Center, utilizing donated items to create the Corner Market. Until a more permanent solution for the SNAP disruption is in place, the Y will offer food at no cost to anyone who presents an EBT card. We currently have enough resources to open the market but expect our initial stock to be depleted within just 10 days.

As we step into this critical role, many have asked how they can help. We invite our supporters to make year-end donations earlier this year and consider increasing their contribution. Thanks to our strong network of partners, we can stretch your dollars further by purchasing food at greatly reduced rates. To supplement the Market and sustain our other outreach activities, we have set a fundraising goal of $30,000 which will be split 50/50:

• $15,000 to the Community Food Fund to purchase food for the Corner Market and other food access programs.
• $15,000 to support our ongoing outreach programs that serve youth, families, and newcomers across the New River Valley.

We invite you to join us once again in stepping up for our neighbors. Together, we can provide nourishment, dignity, and hope during this challenging time—and build a stronger, more resilient community for all. Thank you for your compassion and continued support.

Your financial gifts multiply our impact, letting us buy exactly what’s needed — fresh produce, proteins, and staples — all for pennies on the pound.