Outreach Beyond Our Walls — Making an Impact
Reaching out to the community in our own neighborhood, across the country, and globally – is a vital part of our ministry at Kent UMC.
Join Us
Reaching out to others – in our neighborhood, across the country, and globally, is a vital part of our ministry at KUMC.
If you want to join us in making a difference, contact the church office at 253-852-3900 or general@KentMethodist.com. You can also fill out the contact form at the bottom of this page, and someone will contact you.
Shared Snacks for Shared Bread
Sunday, February 8th, after Worship
We are deeply grateful that, due to ongoing pledges and strong support, Shared Bread is entering 2026 in a healthy financial position. As we continue serving individuals and families within the Kent School District, contributions received from our February 8 “Shared Snacks for Shared Bread” fundraiser will be directed to the Congregation Assistance Fund to address pressing needs as they arise within our own congregation. Thank you for your continued support of Shared Bread through your prayers and financial support. Together, we are making a tremendous difference.
Giving Tree Update
How incredibly generous you are! Your response to our Giving Tree changes was overwhelming. Your light is definitely shining throughout our community!
We provided 18 gift cards to Vine Maple Place and numerous donations to Shared Bread. And with help from members of the congregation, we filled 180 bags with hats, gloves, socks, and additional items such as donated toothbrushes, toothpaste, travel-size toiletries, and Chapstick and handwarmers purchased with Outreach funds. Fresh-baked cookies and candy topped off the bags. Here is a note from Chari Apperson, a member of the Terrific Tuesday team who prepares meals every week for Vine Maple Place clients and homeless individuals.
Chari and a few others distribute those meals every Tuesday night at Holy Spirit Catholic Church in downtown Kent.
“I want to thank you again for all the bags the Kent United Methodist congregation put together for the Holy Spirit guests today. I was fighting back tears tonight at the church and was absolutely blown away by the congregation’s generosity!!! This will be SO VERY nice to give to our guests next Tuesday!!! Thank you from the bottom of my heart!!”
Gift Bags for Foster Girls:
The Outreach: Beyond Our Walls recently connected with Ellie and Callie’s Place, an organization that helps young women who are about to ‘age out’ of foster care. With Outreach funds, we made gift bags for four young women, ages 18 and 19. We hope to continue our association with this group. Watch for more information in the coming year.
Atlantic Street Center Update
The Outreach: Beyond our Walls Committee would like to thank our congregation for stepping up again this year to help Atlantic Street Center provide Christmas gifts to the approximately 250 families it serves. Nora Weiss, Marketing Manager (pictured here), was very appreciative to receive 10 bags full of your donations, including puzzles, games, toys, stuffed animals, coloring books, art supplies, beauty items, and knit hats. These items will go to children ranging from babies to teenagers. Thank you again for your generosity!
Thank You for Supporting Martha House
The Outreach: Beyond Our Walls Committee would like to thank Barb Sauer and the members of her sorority, Xi Alpha Chi, for purchasing all the Christmas gifts for the “Martha House” family. For many years, our church has sponsored one of the transitional housing units operated by St. Stephen’s Housing Authority, which we named the “Martha House.” This year, the family is a mom and her three daughters, ages 9, 12, and 17. This family has previously lived in their car, and the mom reported she feels pleased and blessed to be living in this house. Our Outreach Committee would also like to thank Kent United Women in Faith for purchasing a $50 gift card for the family at Fred Meyer. These gifts and gift cards will help this family have a wonderful Christmas this year.
Turkey Drive Update!
Luke 3:11 says, "Whoever has two coats must share with anyone who has none, and whoever has food must do likewise." The Outreach Beyond Our Walls Committee is so pleased to share the results of our Turkey Drive. This year, our church members donated even more than last year. See our contributions below.
Collected
Broth—134
Dressing—181
Canned Cranberries—131
Cinnamon—125
Dollars—$2,465
Breakfast Foods Drive Update!
In early September, we collected 2,593 pounds of food and $640 in cash donations at the Covington Fred Meyer for Kent Food Bank. This is an opportunity to make a difference with your time, not your money. We invite our community to contribute to this event. Given the overwhelming success of our first drive and the significant need, we plan to facilitate this initiative three times a year.
Community Loaves—Holiday Update
Our Community Loaves mission is going well, thanks to a few community members joining our baking team. We are now baking both bread and energy cookies for the Kent Food Bank. This is an ongoing opportunity for anyone to join. Orientation online at your convenience. If you'd like to try it out, we are offering a special delivery of Holiday shortbread on December 14. The recipe is very simple, and the cost is low. If you are interested, please contact Sandra Durbrow. We'd love to have you join us.
Foster Parents Needed!
Calling all caring individuals in King County! Your help is urgently needed to support vulnerable youth and teens in foster care in YOUR community.
Becoming a foster parent can provide the stability and care these youth and teens desperately need. Together, we can make a real difference in their lives and help them build a brighter future. By fostering a youth or teen, you can help build trust and stability during difficult times, prepare them for adulthood, and become a meaningful mentor.
You can foster the future and create a better tomorrow for these vulnerable young people.
To learn more about becoming a foster parent, scan the QR code or visit dcyf.wa.gov for more information.
FOLLOW US ON FACEBOOK: @FosterParentsWA