Much has been written in the press lately about hunger insecurity, especially when it concerns school aged children. We are fortunate to live in an area where several groups and organizations have programs in place to help alleviate this problem. One such program here in our neighborhood is the Northshore Community Kitchen, a joint partnership between Northshore Council PTSA and the Northshore YMCA.

Working with the Northshore School District, the Kitchen benefits from sustained support from a small group of local businesses and organizations. It receives donations from PTA units and individuals. The Kitchen also has a great group of volunteers, including high school students during summer vacation. Those factors have meant that over 20 Northshore families have been able to pick up a simple, freshly prepared and nutritious ready-to-eat meal once a week since April.

The program has been so successful that we have now expanded to include a weekly sack meal for students at a Junior High Hang-Time after school program.

The Kitchen is not a food bank, but we do accept donations of specific non-perishable food items and other pantry staples that are used on a regular basis. Volunteers are always welcome so if you would like to help prepare meals or help in another capacity please contact either of us for more information. Monetary donations are also appreciated and can be made to either Northshore Council PTSA or Northshore YMCA both of which are 501(c)(3) organizations.

The actress Lily Tomlin has often been quoted as saying, “ I always wondered why somebody doesn’t do something about that. Then I realized I was somebody.”

We don’t know if she was speaking about hunger insecurity or not, but you’ve got to agree … it’s a great quote!

Sincerely,

Sue Freeman

Social Services Chair

Northshore Council PTSA

425-844-8923

Julie Jacobson

Senior Director

Northshore YMCA

425-286-6122