Mornings Matter

“Do we have cereal today?”

That’s the first thing I ask most mornings. Not because I’m picky—but because it means I can start the day feeling just a little bit normal.

For a long time, I didn’t have that. I was crashing on friends’ couches, staying anywhere that felt safer than home. I didn’t know where I’d sleep next, let alone what I’d eat. Every morning was chaos. No food and no routine.  It was pretty scary. 

When I finally got into transitional housing, everything started to shift.

Now, I have a safe place to stay. I’m working. I’m trying to rebuild. And most mornings, there’s a small breakfast station—cereal, oatmeal, fruit, milk. It might not sound like much, but it’s a big deal when you’ve gone without.

That little bit of breakfast gives me something to count on. It helps me walk out the door and face the day. It gives me dignity.

But lately, the breakfast shelf is almost bare.

That’s why the Kirkland Community Foundation launched Morning Matters. It’s a campaign to keep shelters stocked with breakfast staples—because food donations drop off in spring, even though the need doesn’t.

Your donation means someone like me doesn’t have to start their day hungry. It means we can start our day with hope.

Morning Matters supports KCF’s Housing & Basic Needs Area of Impact, helping local shelters serve people who are doing their best to get back on their feet. It's one of the simplest, most meaningful ways to show up for your neighbors.

Because in moments like this, a bowl of cereal isn’t just breakfast—it’s a fresh start.

Make someone’s morning. Give today. 

Donations will be directed to support Helen's House at Sofia's Way; New Bethlehem, and Safe Parking.  All projects supporting women and/or families in Kirkland, WA