Foodlink and YMCA Partner to Provide Thousands of Meals at the Lewis Street Neighborhood Center

In a joint effort to address food insecurity in Rochester, the YMCA of Greater Rochester and Foodlink have teamed up to provide essential food services at the Lewis Street YMCA Neighborhood Center, located at 53 Lewis Street. This collaboration is part of the YMCA’s mission to adapt its programming to meet the evolving needs of the community, especially as food insecurity has become an increasingly pressing issue.

The Lewis Street YMCA Neighborhood Center, which has been a staple in the Marketview Heights community for decades, has transformed over the years to offer a variety of essential services. In 2022, the YMCA purchased the building, marking the beginning of its first Neighborhood Center, which provides free services for youth, seniors, and families in the area.

One of the center’s most impactful partnerships has been with Foodlink, a regional food bank and community kitchen. Through this collaboration, the center offers both a well-stocked food pantry and daily nutritious meals. Foodlink’s support has been instrumental, delivering 22,000 pounds of food and providing 7,000 meals in the past year alone.

These meals have helped sustain children participating in after-school and summer programs, as well as adults attending congregate meals served three days a week. In addition to the meal programs, the center opened its food pantry in the fall of 2024, which saw hundreds of visits in just the first six months. The most significant increase in visits occurred during the holiday season, reflecting the high demand for food assistance during times of economic strain.

“The YMCA of Greater Rochester has been a part of the neighborhood since 2001, offering vital services such as childcare,” said Ernie Lamour, President & CEO of the YMCA of Greater Rochester. “Our ability to adapt and meet the community’s needs, like this partnership with Foodlink, has been crucial in supporting our neighbors.”

The partnership not only provides food services but also extends the YMCA’s reach in serving the community. In 2024, the center saw nearly 11,000 visits, with its expanded programming addressing needs in wellness, education, and recreational activities. These services, including virtual wellness visits with UR Medicine and various life skills activities, are offered free of charge to residents of the area.

As George Warren, Vice President of Urban Services at the YMCA, shared, "We are serving more of our neighbors than ever before, and much of this success is thanks to the community-driven programming and our incredible partner organizations."

The Lewis Street YMCA Neighborhood Center, including its food pantry, is open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m., ensuring that families have access to essential food and services throughout the week.