Once upon a time, children sang that all they wanted for Christmas were their two front teeth. Today, the wish lists of our youth are far more serious. From the pressures of social media to the struggles of addiction, many young people face challenges that threaten their futures.
But in the spirit of the season, one local organization is offering more than carols and candy canes – it’s offering hope. Coffee Oasis, a nonprofit that has been serving Kitsap County since 1997, provides a safe haven for youth in crisis. With centers in Bremerton, Poulsbo, Port Orchard, and Tacoma, the organization opens its doors to young people who need more than holiday cheer.
Inside, the gifts are practical yet profound: hot meals, showers, laundry, clothing, and job training. Beyond the basics, Coffee Oasis offers a crisis text line, walk-in and mobile crisis services, substance use support, a youth shelter, and even long-term housing.
Founded nearly three decades ago, Coffee Oasis began with a simple mission: to compassionately encourage and equip youth with the resources they need to thrive. What started in Bremerton has grown into a regional network of care, touching thousands of lives each year.
Recent statistics show Coffee Oasis welcomed 2,113 youth into its drop-in centers, provided 1,925 bed nights in the Bremerton and Tacoma facilities, and offered classes to 270 young people seeking brighter futures.
Coffee Oasis stands as a refuge where compassion knows no boundaries. Its services are offered freely, without regard to religious beliefs, race, color, gender, ethnicity, sexual orientation, identity, or disability. In this season of giving, the organization reminds us that true holiday spirit is found in inclusivity and care.
Since 2016, the Poulsbo Lions Raab Foundation Bellringer Fund has been a steadfast supporter of Coffee Oasis, ensuring that local youth have the resources they need. This partnership embodies the very essence of the holidays: neighbors helping neighbors, and community lifting community.
Volunteers are always welcome to lend a hand at Coffee Oasis. For those who wish to give, visit thecoffeeoasis.com. And to continue the tradition of support, donations to the Poulsbo Lions Bellringer Fund will help sustain this vital work. $3,700 has been raised as of Dec. 5.
How to Donate:
- PayPal: poulsbolions@gmail.com
- Online: Visit poulsbolions.blogspot.com and click the “Donate” button in the right-hand column
- Mail: Send checks to Poulsbo Lions, P.O. Box 1244, Poulsbo, WA 98370
John Macdonald and Terry Blais are both officers of the Poulsbo Lions Club.
