Food insecurity is increasing across the New River Valley, and no one should face it alone.

The YMCA at Virginia Tech is committed to strengthening community well-being by addressing food insecurity across the region through collaborative, community-driven solutions. Recognizing that access to nutritious food is essential for healthy individuals and thriving families, the Y works alongside local partners, volunteers, and donors to provide reliable food access, reduce barriers, and create pathways to long-term stability. From distributing fresh and shelf-stable foods to supporting innovative programs that connect individuals with resources and education, the Y strives to ensure that every member of the community has the nourishment they need to learn, grow, and succeed.

Together, we are doing more than providing meals—we are building healthier lives and a more connected community.

AGENCY ON AGING

Through a meaningful partnership with the New River Valley Agency on Aging, the YMCA is helping ensure that community members receive more than just a meal—they receive nourishment, connection, and care.

 Each week, together we provide healthy, delicious, and nutritionally balanced meals to older adults through the AOA Friendship Cafes. For many, these meals are essential to maintaining their health and independence, offering consistent access to the nourishment they need to thrive.

At the Y, we believe strong communities are built when people come together to care for one another. This partnership reflects that belief in action—combining resources, compassion, and local collaboration to meet real needs with dignity and warmth. 

MEALS FOR KIDS

Through the CACFP program, the YMCA at Virginia Tech is helping ensure that kids have access to the meals they need to grow, learn, and thrive.

At approved locations, meals are served in safe, welcoming spaces where children are met with care and encouragement. For many families facing food insecurity, these meals provide more than nourishment—they bring peace of mind, knowing their children are supported each day.

It’s a simple but powerful way the Y shows up for its community—one meal, one child, one moment of care at a time.

BEANS & RICE

The YMCA at Virginia Tech is partnering with Beans and Rice to help sustain and strengthen food distribution in Radford.

The Beans and Rice Market provides free groceries—including fresh produce, dairy, meat, and pantry staples—to families facing food insecurity. More than just a food resource, it is a welcoming space where everyone is treated with dignity and care, thanks to dedicated volunteers and community support.

This year, the effort has grown even stronger. After Radford University students expressed a need for more food access on campus, we worked together to launch a new distribution site. This expansion makes it easier for students and community members alike to access healthy, nutritious food close to where they are.

Location: Lower level at the back of Sharkey’s, 1202 E. Main St. Radford
Hours: Tuesdays 10:00am-2:30pm

Food distribution is located in the lower level at the back of Sharkey’s, 1202 E. Main St. Radford

VOLUNTEERING

We have various opportunities for volunteering, including food pick up, sorting, food distribution, cleaning, etc. 

Beans and Rice (lower level at the back of Sharkey’s, 1202 E. Main St. Radford)

For all volunteer slots, please wear closed-toe shoes and comfortable clothes that you won't mind getting dirty. We often lift 25lb+ boxes full of food! Volunteers are expected to be engaged, punctual and tidy. Looking forward to working with you!

CORNER MARKET

The Y Corner Market is a place of welcome, where anyone in need can find free, nutritious food in a supportive, judgment-free environment. There are no forms to fill out, no requirements to meet—just open doors and caring faces ready to help.

More than a food resource, the market is a reflection of community at its best. It’s neighbors helping neighbors, sharing what they can, and ensuring that everyone has access to what they need to get by—and to feel seen, valued, and supported.

We welcome you—no questions, no barriers—just a caring community ready to share.

Location: Y Center, 1000 N Main St. Blacksburg

Hours: Wednesdays 2pm-5pm

 As a volunteer, you’ll play an important role in creating a welcoming, dignified, and uplifting experience for our guests.

Volunteers assist individuals and families as they select and collect food items, offering friendly guidance and helping ensure suggested guidelines are followed so there is enough for everyone. Most importantly, you’ll provide compassionate customer service—greeting guests warmly, supporting them with respect, and helping create a space where all feel seen, valued, and cared for.

 Don't need help right now but want to help others? Your Support Makes a Difference—Here’s How to Help

 We need your help to keep shelves stocked! 

 Donate today: HERE

or send a check to The YMCA at Virginia Tech, 403 Washington St SW, Blacksburg VA 24060.

 We appreciate all donations—every gift matters—but we kindly ask that contributions be made in cash whenever possible. This helps us act quickly and efficiently.

Thank you for standing with us and making a real impact in our community!

 Together, we can provide nourishment, dignity, and hope.  THANK YOU!

NRV Food Assistance Directory Connects Community Members to Resources.

In collaboration with members of NRV Thrive, a network of agencies working to address food insecurity in the region, The Community Foundation of the New River Valley (CFNRV) recently released its 2023-2024 NRV Food Assistance Directory. The directory aims to connect community members in need of food assistance to the programs providing this support and contains the details of 53 food assistance programs in the counties of Floyd, Giles, Montgomery, and Pulaski as well as the city of Radford. Read the directory by clicking here

Donations can be made to support our community programs such as Meals On Main from our website at: www.vtymca.org/donate or by sending a check to YMCA at VT, 403 Washington St. SW, Blacksburg, VA 24060

Las donaciones pueden apoyar nuestros programas comunitarios, como Las Comidas en Main desde nuestro sitio de web (www.vtymca.org/donate) o por enviar un cheque a YMCA en VT, 403 Washington St. SW, Blacksburg, VA 24060