Snoqualmie Valley Shelter Services got a big present from King County Councilmember Kathy Lambert earlier this month – something that SVSS Executive Director Jennifer Kirk will greatly help the organization: a refurbished van.
Via email Kirk said, “Transportation is quite limited in the Snoqualmie Valley. The lack of transportation poses many hardships for our resident homeless and can serve to further isolate them from society. This gift of a van will afford access to much-needed services both inside and outside the valley and will allow us to safely transport guests to and from our shelter on days when public transportation isn’t available.”
SVSS received the “retired” County employee (i.e. van) from Councilmember Lambert on September 7, 2017. Surrounded by shelter employees and volunteers, Lambert presented the organization with the keys of a retired Metro Transit Vanpool van.
Kirk added, “In a community where transportation is a major barrier, Councilmember Kathy Lambert’s advocacy has helped to build a bridge between those experiencing homelessness and the services they so desperately need and deserve. This van donation is truly a gift that will provide access to doctor’s appointments, social services and the like.”
King County says the vanpool program provides mobility for a diverse array of King County residents, supports the positive work of various local organizations, and relieves traffic congestion by reducing the need for single-occupancy vehicles.
Councilmember Kathy Lambert said, “This is such an amazing program that connects retired vans to worthwhile organizations across our county. I am so delighted to support the mission of SVSS by facilitating the donation of a van so they can better serve their clients.”
Interested organizations can contact Councilmember Lambert for more information on applying for a vehicle.
