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KCUCares Send Hunger Packing: Spotlight on Pierce County Food Banks
Earlier this year, Kitsap Credit Union and the KCUCares Foundation came together for our annual Send Hunger Packing initiative, contributing $90,000 to support local food banks across Kitsap, Mason, Pierce, and Jefferson counties. This event is part of our ongoing commitment to hunger relief, helping families and neighbors in need access nutritious food while supporting the organizations that make it possible.
Continuing our series highlighting these incredible food banks, this week we’re turning our focus to Pierce County, where dedicated organizations are working tirelessly to provide food, connection, and dignity to those they serve.
Creating Connection Beyond Meals
The KCUCares Foundation’s support doesn’t just fill shelves, it strengthens community ties and fosters human connection. Julie Gustanski, Volunteer CEO of the Greater Gig Harbor Foundation, shared a story that shows how a donation can truly make a difference in someone’s life:
“Last year’s support from the KCUCares Foundation helped create moments of dignity, connection, and relief for neighbors who needed it most. Earlier this year, we began serving a widowed senior. Living alone with limited mobility, she often went days without a fresh meal or meaningful interaction. Through our Senior Meals Program, strengthened by the KCUCares Foundation’s funding, volunteers began delivering monthly food boxes filled with staples, as well as nutritious meals twice a week to her,” said Julie.
“At first, she quietly accepted the meals at the door. But over time, those brief wellness check-ins became something she looked forward to. She recently shared, ‘These meals keep me going, but the people who bring them… they make me feel like I still matter.’ The KCUCares Foundation’s support didn’t just feed her... it helped reduce her isolation and gave her a renewed sense of connection and safety.”
Stories like this one remind us that food banks do more than fight hunger. They also foster human connection, provide comfort, and help neighbors feel seen and supported.
Get to Know the Pierce County Food Banks
Gig Harbor Peninsula FISH: Providing food assistance with dignity and compassion, Gig Harbor Peninsula FISH services Gig Harbor, Fox Island, the Key Peninsula, and more. This emergency food bank provides self-shopping for basic groceries and personal hygiene products.
Continuing our series highlighting these incredible food banks, this week we’re turning our focus to Pierce County, where dedicated organizations are working tirelessly to provide food, connection, and dignity to those they serve.
Creating Connection Beyond Meals
The KCUCares Foundation’s support doesn’t just fill shelves, it strengthens community ties and fosters human connection. Julie Gustanski, Volunteer CEO of the Greater Gig Harbor Foundation, shared a story that shows how a donation can truly make a difference in someone’s life:
“Last year’s support from the KCUCares Foundation helped create moments of dignity, connection, and relief for neighbors who needed it most. Earlier this year, we began serving a widowed senior. Living alone with limited mobility, she often went days without a fresh meal or meaningful interaction. Through our Senior Meals Program, strengthened by the KCUCares Foundation’s funding, volunteers began delivering monthly food boxes filled with staples, as well as nutritious meals twice a week to her,” said Julie.
“At first, she quietly accepted the meals at the door. But over time, those brief wellness check-ins became something she looked forward to. She recently shared, ‘These meals keep me going, but the people who bring them… they make me feel like I still matter.’ The KCUCares Foundation’s support didn’t just feed her... it helped reduce her isolation and gave her a renewed sense of connection and safety.”
Stories like this one remind us that food banks do more than fight hunger. They also foster human connection, provide comfort, and help neighbors feel seen and supported.
Get to Know the Pierce County Food Banks
Gig Harbor Peninsula FISH: Providing food assistance with dignity and compassion, Gig Harbor Peninsula FISH services Gig Harbor, Fox Island, the Key Peninsula, and more. This emergency food bank provides self-shopping for basic groceries and personal hygiene products.
- There are a variety of ways to get involved at Gig Harbor Peninsula FISH including donating, hosting a food drive, volunteering, and more. Learn how you can get involved.
- You can get involved by volunteering your time, donating, and more. Learn more about their opportunities.
- Whether you’d like to volunteer as an individual or a group, or are looking to donate, Puyallup Food Bank has a place for you. Learn how you can get involved.
- Donations, volunteers, and food drives are welcome! Learn how you can get involved today.
December 29, 2025