Hope Market
Single mother finds healthy food, solace, and community at The Salvation Army Tacoma Hope Market
Two years ago, Tara, a single mother of a toddler, moved to Tacoma and fell on hard times. After surviving a domestic violence situation, she struggled to maintain employment, feed her son, and keep a roof over their heads.
“When you’re homeless, you’re already embarrassed about your life and scared of being judged,” Tara shared. “It’s not easy being a single mom, as a caregiver 24 hours a day on top of keeping a job to provide for him.”
When she walked through the doors of The Salvation Army’s Tacoma Hope Market – a food pantry that offers a “grocery shopping” experience with fresh, nutritious options – she immediately felt a sense of relief and acceptance. She was also directed to resources for housing, meals, and clothes for her son.
“They welcomed me with open arms. They teach you a structure to help you be prepared if you fall,” said Tara. “I love the community here – that’s why I keep coming back.
Tara frequents The Salvation Army Tacoma Hope Market every week to keep food on the table for her young family. She says every time she is treated with dignity, kindness, and respect. They also help wrangle her boy while she shops.
“It feels like a local market where you can get quality food and take your time to shop,” said Tara. “You not only get food, you get encouragement and a shoulder to lean on. No one is here to judge you – just to help.”