During the past six years a small number of dedicated people have been working to reduce the effects of hunger on people, especially children, in our very own community. Northshore Nourishing Networks started in 2009 as a small, thoughtful group of committed citizens interested in beginning a conversation about how to meet the needs of a growing number of hungry people right here in Northshore.

Ordinary people rolled up their sleeves and said, “Yes, count me in,” and helped to lay the groundwork for practical community service, neighbor to neighbor. From those beginning conversations these are a few of the programs now in place: Hopelink Satellite Food Bank in Kenmore was established to provide an alternative location for families; Totes to Go weekend food backpacks for kids began in one school by one family and one church and has grown to benefit several schools in Northshore; Northshore Community Kitchen is a joint PTSA/YMCA program that provides a free, once-a-week, ready-to-eat meal to up to 15 Northshore families; Community meals served at various locations around the area; ‘Fuel Packs’ for high school students; A free summer lunch program coordinated by Northshore YMCA.

However, the need is great and growing and there is more work to do. If you are interested in learning more, please contact Sue Freeman at suefree7@hotmail.com, or visit the Northshore Nourishing Network website: http://www.nourishingnetworks.net/northshore/

If you would rather find out more in person, our next meeting will be from 4-5:30 p.m. on Nov. 30 in the Thorndike Room at McMenamins in Bothell. Anyone is welcome to attend.

Together we can impact lives. We hope to see you there.

“Never doubt that a small, thoughtful group of committed citizens can change the world. Indeed, it’s the only thing that ever has.” – Margaret Mead

Janet Quinn is a Kenmore resident and a member of the Northshore Nourishing Networks.