Kent Community Partners

At the outset of the pandemic, the Kent Community Foundation stepped up to address food insecurity in Kent by facilitating collaborative discussions among various stakeholders. This diverse group quickly expanded to include non-profits, faith-based organizations, service clubs, government agencies, and dedicated community volunteers.  Together, this group chose the name "Kent Community Partners".

Through bi-weekly meetings, the group worked tirelessly to develop a sustainable model to support families in need. They wrote collaborative grants to enhance the capabilities of organizations involved in food distribution. Notable achievements included securing donations of equipment, providing training for its operation, and establishing a food distribution center at Showare, complete with refrigerated storage for the regular delivery of USDA food boxes.

The Kent Community Foundation launched a Covid-19 Response Fund, and supported the donation drives hosted at Kent Station that benefited all connected non-profits.This collaborative effort not only created efficiencies but also fostered lasting partnerships and a deeper understanding of each organization's contributions. It invigorated a new cohort of volunteers and forged many friendships along the way.

The Kent Community Foundation is fundraising to hire an executive director, we hope to reinstate the meetings of the Kent Community Partners with the additional support.
COMING TOGETHER AS A COMMUNITY TO ADDRESS FOOD INSECURITY DURING THE PANDEMIC