Issaquah-based nonprofit, Eastside Baby Corner (EBC), has opened a branch in the West Sound, realizing its vision of helping more kids in the region have the basics, like diapers, clothing and food. Grand opening ceremonies are scheduled for June 4 at the Bremerton location.

In Kitsap and north Pierce Counties, according to the American Community Survey – US Census, nearly 10 percent of residents receive Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits, 12 percent of families are living below the poverty line and 28 percent of children under age 5 live below the poverty level.

Eastside Baby Corner has been working to help families living in poverty and/or crisis for 26 years. Facing those statistics, EBC leadership knew they had to get involved when three West Sound residents approached them about starting a similar organization in the West Sound.

“It has always been our mission to serve as many children as possible, so when we were presented with an opportunity to help families in the West Sound, who desperately need our help, we couldn’t refuse,” says Eastside Baby Corner Executive Director, Renee Zimmerman. “After much consideration, we decided the best way to serve families in the West Sound was to bring a branch of EBC to the area, rather than trying to reinvent the wheel.”

The new EBC – West Sound is on target to have a substantial coverage area that extends from the Tacoma Narrows Bridge to the Hood Canal Bridge. The distribution center is at 1463 NE Dawn Rd, Bremerton.

Learn more about Eastside Baby Corner at www.babycorner.org.