Strong "ROOTS" are Growing
“It’s nice to know that you’re doing something that makes a positive difference in people’s lives,” says Matt Fox, Director of Operations at ROOTS. ROOTS (Rising out of the Shadows), offers the only shelter in Seattle designed to meet the needs of young adults between 18-25 years old. ROOTS provides a variety of services seven days a week, and feeds about 150 guests every Friday during Friday Feast. Last year, the organization worked with 443 individuals and served more than 10,000 meals, and this month the organization is celebrating its 14th year!
On March 27th Shalom Zone Nonprofit Association/dba ROOTS will celebrate its 14th anniversary of providing food, shelter and services to Seattle’s homeless young adults. Located in the University Temple United Methodist Church in the University District, the ROOTS shelter provides a safe environment for young adults seven nights a week. Snacks, dinner and a hot breakfast are offered to guests, along with the opportunity to do laundry, take showers and receive health care visits. The Friday Feast program is open to all ages and was created as a compliment other services offered, and begins at 6 p.m. every Friday. Fox says the guests, some of whom are still homeless, take ownership of the Friday Feast program. A true community has been established as people work together to create a fun and engaging program by making the meals or helping to provide entertainment from local musicians.
Staff and volunteers are devoted to providing a supportive, stable environment that prepares youth for a successful integration back into the community. With the assistance of on-site case managers, youth coming through the program are able to set self-identifying goals for a brighter future. Celebrating its 14th year, ROOTS plans to continue to help its clients find permanent housing, employment, and comfort through a hot meal and a solid community.