New Bedford Play Arcade Feeding Anyone Who Needs Food

At Play Arcade in downtown New Bedford, owner Adam Katz has a rule, one that has been in place since the arcade opened, even if most people never knew about it.

“If someone ever comes in and needs food, we feed them, whether they have the money or not,” Katz said. “That's just who we are.”

But with concerns about families temporarily losing access to SNAP benefits, Katz decided it was time to make that quiet policy public. Katz said he was inspired by his friend J.B. Blau, who owns the Sharkey's restaurants and others on Martha’s Vineyard. Blau recently launched a similar effort, and Katz said "I'm stealing this" and posted the message to Play Arcade's socials.

The message was simple: if you’re hungry, come in. You will be fed. No questions. No judgment.

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Katz said he didn’t expect the overwhelming response. “The amount of people reaching out has been amazing,” he said. “This community really cares about each other.”

READ MORE: Taunton BBQ Owner Offers $6 Meals to Help Families

He has also encouraged those who want to help to donate directly to local food pantries, noting they will be seeing increased need.

Available to Anyone, Both Kids and Adults Alike

The offer is indefinite and ongoing. Katz said many people who need help don’t want attention. That’s why Play Arcade has always handled these situations privately and respectfully.

“You don’t have to explain. You don’t have to prove anything. If you need a meal, you will get one,” Katz said.