Now that Thanksgiving donations have come and gone back out to those in need in the community, Kingston Food Bank and ShareNet Food Bank are both looking to restock the shelves with food supplies for Christmas boxes, and new, unwrapped toys, gift certificates and clothes that will be distributed this month. Both food banks rely on the generosity of local individuals and businesses for support, counting on the spirit of giving this season to make the end of the year brighter for everyone. Specific needs, drop-off information and distribution days are listed below.
Kingston Food Bank
The Kingston Food Bank will be open on noon-3 p.m. on Mondays through the month of December to collect donations of food and toys. It will still be open during its regular hours of noon-3 p.m. Wednesdays and Fridays.
Donations of toys, coats and gift cards for boys and girls, from infants to pre-teens, are badly needed to distribute to in December. Donations of turkeys, hams and other food items for holiday boxes are still requested as well. Cash donations are welcome and used to purchase items the food bank is low on.
Boxes will be distributed 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Dec. 21 for Christmas. Those who’d like a box need to sign up in person beforehand at the food bank.
Call the food bank at (360) 297-4861, Vi Weaver at (360) 297-3277 or Barb Fulton at (360) 297-7100 for more information. Cash donations can be sent to the Kingston Food Bank, c/o Barb Fulton, P.O. Box 323, Kingston, WA 98346.
ShareNet
ShareNet, located in the Cutting Edge Business Park at 26061 United Road off Bond Road, is collecting donations for Christmas meals, as well as stocking the Christmas toy and gift shop. Food needed includes items for holiday meals and baking. Items may be dropped off 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday and must be received by Dec. 7 for Christmas meals.
Christmas toy and gift donations are accepted through Dec. 14 at either ShareNet or Bayside Community Church on Barber Cut Off Road in Kingston. Donations for Christmas of unwrapped toys, games and puzzles, warm clothing, gift cards and certificates and household items are welcome for children, teens and families.
Christmas boxes will be distributed 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Dec. 19. The Christmas toy and gift shop will be open 3-6 p.m. Dec. 18. The sign-up deadline is Dec. 7.
ShareNet may be reached at (360) 297-2266. Hours are 9:30 a.m.-noon Tuesdays and Fridays or call to make an appointment. Cash donations may be mailed to ShareNet, P.O. Box 250, Kingston, WA 98346.
