We know that a child’s ability to engage, focus, and learn starts with feeling safe and secure. However, when basic needs go unmet, it becomes difficult for children to fully experience the joy of learning and play. The Children’s Pantry was created as a practical and compassionate response to this reality, ensuring that all families in our community have access to the resources they need.

The need for such an initiative is significant. Friday Harbor has one of the highest poverty rates in the county. The impact on young children is especially concerning. In Friday Harbor, children live below the poverty level at a rate 1.5 times higher than the state average, a stark contrast to the county average of 14%. The Children’s Pantry is a small but meaningful way to help bridge this gap and provide families with tangible support.

Located at Hope Harbor Children’s Center at St. David’s, The Children’s Pantry is open to all families in need. We invite our community to participate, whether by donating, exchanging, or simply spreading the word. This initiative is built on the power of mutual support, and together, we can create a stronger, more connected San Juan Island where every child has the opportunity to thrive.