SEATTLE — It’s Nov. 1, and some Seattle Seahawks are going up against an opponent bigger than the ones they battle on the football field.
They're fighting hunger.
Rookie cornerbacks Tariq Woolen and Coby Bryant, along with some Seahawks dancers and Blitz, are stocking shelves at Northwest Harvest's SoDo Market.
"It's a blessing honestly," Bryant said. "I've always been brought up on helping out the community, that's something that my family raised me up to do — it's natural for me to do."
They're kicking off something important.
"Today we're here at Northwest Harvest, it's a very exciting day," said Northwest Harvest CEO Thomas Reynolds. "On November first, Safeway kicks off its grocery card campaign, it's a chance for consumers all across western Washington to contribute to people who are struggling with hunger have a wonderful, happy holiday.”
Foodbanks like Northwest Harvest’s Free Community Market help with staples, and the grocery cards help with special foods during the holidays.
They also provide something else.
"The grocery cards are amazing in terms of giving people choice and giving people dignity,” Thomas said.
Lately this market has had a tough time keeping its shelves stocked.
So the semi full of food donated by Safeway and the helpful Hawks are much needed.
“We are so delighted to be working with the Seattle Seahawks," Thomas said. "They mean so much to the community and we are really delighted to partner with them."
This team tackles the job with their trademark “I’m In” work ethic.
"This is so much fun,” said Lillian Larson, a Seahawks Dancer.
"I honestly have never heard of a free grocery store," dancer Sean Santhon added. "I’ve heard of food pantries, but that idea of walking in and choosing your own brings you back to that dignity aspect of choosing your meal as opposed to getting it handed to you."
Because the only things more important than football this time of year may be shelves full of food for anyone who needs it.
"It's good to give back when you can, especially when you got time," Woolen said. "It also shows that it goes bigger than football, because that's what I think, it's bigger than football."
Click here for more information about Safeway’s grocery card campaign to fight hunger.
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