Being a child in a family without enough food to eat is hard for many to imagine, and it is the unfortunate truth for many youth in our community. Kelly Wilson took that information to heart 17 years ago when she and friends filled backpacks for a holiday weekend when students were not able to take advantage of meals at school. That event ignited what is now All Kids Win, a not-for-profit organization that continues to deliver weekly sacks of food to over 700 students in Olympia, Lacey, Tumwater, Yelm, Rainier, Rochester, and Tenino.
Wilson’s enduring spirit to serve her community shines an encouraging light for others to participate. “People want to make a difference and feed kids,” she says. Her inspiration is derived from the many joyful people who regularly give their time and talents to All Kids Win. It’s a large team. Cases of food are unpacked and made ready for the packers. Varying groups of 20 people come each week to fill the bags. Spreadsheets help the delivery team who drive to all the schools. “There is no easy job. It’s hard work moving food around,” she explains.
Her heart connection to all those around her is easy to see. As Wilson recalled a substantial check the organization received, she welled up with emotion. “This person is showing love for someone they’ll never meet.” With each sack valued at $10.00, filling over 700 each week adds up quickly. “We live on donations,” she says. All Kids Win is grateful to Columbia Bank for its generosity in renting an affordable space since 2019.
Gratitude is a foundation in her life. “Family is everything,” says Wilson, appreciating their continued love and support. She and her husband Greg host a family dinner each Wednesday that includes their children and grandchildren. A table for 20 was the first thing she got when she and Greg inherited the house previously owned by Greg’s parents, Dave and Lorna Wilson. “Greg is a good cook,” she adds with a smile.
You can support the organization in a variety of ways. Contribute funds, sign up your packing group on the All Kids Win website, or organize a drive to collect chili, which is an expensive item.
Thank you, Kelly Wilson, for making a valuable difference in our community.
For Additional Information
allkidswin.org
MARY ELLEN PSALTIS