Bellevue LifeSpring ‘Steps Up to the Plate' for Families in Need

Bellevue LifeSpring ‘Steps Up to the Plate' for Families in Need

According to Bellevue LifeSpring, nearly 4,000 children in Bellevue are experiencing food insecurity — the highest number in eight years. As a result, one in five students are enrolled in a free and reduced-price meal program at their school.

As Bellevue grows into a vibrant urban city, Bellevue LifeSpring's support has grown with it. Since 1911, the nonprofit has continued their tradition of "neighbors helping neighbors" that began over a century ago. Year after year, Bellevue LifeSpring dedicates themselves to the community through various programs and services like their 21st annual Step Up to the Plate Benefit Luncheon taking place on May 24 at Meydenbauer Center. 

Jennifer Fischer, executive director for Bellevue LifeSpring, said she’s thrilled to bring the community back together after a two-year pandemic postponement.

“This is a momentous occasion and a special opportunity for our community to reunite around the bigger purpose of supporting children and families during a time of great need,” Fischer said.

Donations can be made on their website and will help feed local children and families from low-income households. Kris Howard, events and volunteer director for Bellevue LifeSpring, said their donation goal is $500,000.

“It’s a big goal, but the generosity and response from the community during the pandemic has been so overwhelming we feel like people will really come together this year to help meet our goal,” Howard said.

During the pandemic, Howard explained that food assistance requests increased by 50% and rental assistance requests tripled. While times were difficult, Bellevue LifeSpring didn't back down or limit support.

“One of the key things about our organization is that we’re small but mighty,” Howard said. “We immediately pivoted to meet people’s needs in the best way possible.”

Since March 2020, with community support, Bellevue LifeSpring has provided over 987,000 meals to Bellevue children and has prevented homelessness for over 1,200 Bellevue children.

“We’re so proud of what we’ve accomplished, and our Step Up to the Plate Luncheon is the perfect opportunity to acknowledge the support we’ve received in the last two years,” Howard said. “We’re so thankful to be part of the Bellevue community.”

To register for the event, please contact Kris Howard at Kris@BellevueLifeSpring.org. 

This blog is part of the Heart of Bellevue: our campaign to showcase local businesses while connecting you with stories of activity, creativity and recovery. Find out about our campaign and explore more of what’s happening around Downtown.