3,219. That is how many in-need youth accessed Coffee Oasis Centers for services January through April, 2021. Could have been for bed nights at homes, or case management sessions. Or simply to wash clothes. That is what Daniel Kluth, Coffee Oasis’ Development Director-churches and civic clubs, told Kingston North Kitsap Rotarians at their May 26 meeting, live and in person, at Village Green Community Center.
Coffee Oasis’ location in Kingston is, and has been, a frequent recipient of grants from the Rotary Club. The most recent, $1,000, is being used to create an outdoor community seating area at the Kingston Coffee Oasis. Kluth reminded Rotarians Coffee Oasis serves fair trade coffee, locally roasted, the proceeds “giving hope to youth in need, with 100% of proceeds dedicated to youth programs.” They have struggled through the Covid-19 pandemic, with sales plummeting 65%. Hours have been cut. Staff has been cut. Nonetheless, with sales now 45% off, they continue to serve their long term mission of 22 years. They have survived with the help of countless volunteers.
When asked the greatest current need, Kluth said “come get coffee.” It is that revenue that initiates the services they provide. Kluth also said volunteers are needed to answer calls to the Coffee Oasis crisis line. Eight hours of training is provided to such volunteers.
The rest of the numbers. January through April, 2021, Coffee Oasis arranged 2300 bed nights, hosted 312 case management sessions, and answered 3,549 crisis line calls.