Kingston Cares

Who We Are 

Kingston Cares is a local nonprofit that works with community members to address poverty issues in North Kitsap. Comprised of volunteers and powered by donations, we are committed to helping hungry and unsheltered neighbors in North Kitsap County. 

Our Programs Include:

*Food4Kids: Delivering nutritious, kid-friendly meals to over 120 local students who lack access to other food programs during school breaks

*The Severe Weather Shelter: Providing shelter for the homeless on severe weather nights

*Community Meals: Coordinating free monthly Grab and Go meals at the Village Green Community Center

One Man's Story

In 2019 and 2020 Kingston residents became aware of and concerned about a familiar sight in Kingston, that of a young man wearing a distinctive coverall suit and often dragging a blue tarp around town. On a very cold night he was enticed to go into the Severe Weather Shelter operated by Kingston Cares at the Village Green. There he was treated with dignity and respect while provided a hot meal, shower, and bed. He was also assisted in filling out a housing application, which led to a volunteer helping him apply for disability benefits to provide rent money. 

Kingston Cares also assisted by providing a mailing address (a requirement to receive housing and benefit assistance), meanwhile, members of the Kingston Affordable Housing Working Group began volunteering with Kitsap Homes of Compassion and convinced Kingston Cares of the value of the program and its potential for serving people like this young man. Kingston Cares helped raise money to rent and furnish what is now known as Barrett House, which has continued in operation since March 2020. The young man was the first tenant, and he is now taking responsibility for housecleaning and yard maintenance. He is taking advantage of the opportunities provided to him by stable housing. He is successfully learning to navigate life off of the streets. Kingston Cares and its volunteers continue to provide support in a variety of ways.