Every Tuesday night, something special happens at Mount Tahoma High School. The cafeteria lights come on, the ovens heat up, and students and staff gather to cook a free Community Dinner for anyone who needs a meal. With many families in Tacoma facing food insecurity, this weekly dinner has grown into more than just a meal—it’s a place to connect, recharge, and feel supported.

The food is prepared and served by Mount Tahoma volunteers who choose to spend their time helping others. Even with school, sports, and jobs, people still show up to cook, clean, and make sure every guest feels welcome. It’s a real example of collaboration and kindness in action.

To understand the bigger picture of food access in Tacoma, I reached out to The Food Connection at St. Leo’s Church. They support families across the city through grocery programs, kids’ meal services, and other resources. Their team shared that the need has been rising, and they work hard to make sure anyone who seeks help can receive it. Students can also visit the Emergency Food Network website to find local food banks and learn where they can get support.

Both the Tuesday Community Dinner and The Food Connection reflect what our school’s values look like in the real world. Belonging, compassion, and community voice show up every time someone chooses to serve a meal, greet a guest, or simply show up for support. These moments remind us that our school isn’t just about academics—it’s about taking care of one another.
As students, it’s easy to feel like we don’t have much power to help. But this dinner proves otherwise. Whether you volunteer, tell a friend about available resources, or just come to eat, you’re part of something that brings hope to our community.

In a time when finding enough food can be tough, Mount Tahoma has found a way to lift each other up—one Tuesday at a time.

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