Kirkland Interfaith Network (KIN)

A number of years ago, seven local churches (including Holy Spirit Lutheran Church) formed the Greater Kirkland Ecumenical Parish and made a covenant to support one another. K.I.N. (Kirkland Interfaith Network) was established by this Ecumenical Parish as a church lay member social ministry outreach group. Some of the projects include:

• The Birthday Corner -- Supplies and gifts are gathered to make birthday parties possible for children served by Hopelink, the local organization which provides food and services for the poor in our area. (A food collection box is located in our lower fellowship hall. Peanut butter, cereal, juice boxes, and other healthy foods children enjoy are especially welcome.)

• Crop walk -- Money pledged to volunteer on this yearly walk helps feed the hungry here and abroad.

• Summer recreation opportunities for children of limited means.

• Hunger Awareness Day (usually in September) -- Food is collected from a number of sources (churches, grocery stores, etc.) and is then distributed by Hopelink and The Emergency Feeding Services.

• Back-to-School Project -- Donations of money and goods to provide new underwear and socks, book bags and school supplies to children served by Hopelink begins during the late summer.

• Holiday Fair (in November) at Kirkland Community Church -- This annual gala provides funding for several organizations serving the poor in the Kirkland area.

• Holiday Gifts For the Season (in the fall) -- Lake Washington United Methodist Church sponsors a gourmet cooking class. It's excellent, fun and free. Those attending promise to bake gifts to sell at the Holiday Fair.

• Christmas Giving Tree -- The community is given the opportunity to purchase age-appropriate gifts which are then made available to K.I.N. clients.

K.I.N. makes every effort to respond to special needs that come up and is always looking for ways to raise money or provide for the needs of the poor.

If you're interested in learning more about the ministries supported by K.I.N., you are encouraged to attend a meeting. Need more information? Please contact Kay McClain through the church office.