Eight years after securing seed funding to help launch the Family First Community Center, the King County Council has presented a $5,000 grant to the Fairwood-based center.

“The Family First Community Center is grateful for the continued support from the King County Council,” said Jackie Montgomery, Executive Director of Family First Community Center. “Public funding is essential to our vital work, helping us drive to sustain our free, membership-based model. This support reduces barriers to access and fosters a vibrant, inclusive community where everyone can thrive.”

The grant was funded through the King County’s Veterans, Seniors and Human Services Levy (VSHSL) grant program, which is a six-year property tax levy that invests in veterans, service members, their respective families, seniors and their caregivers, as well as what the county calls “resilient communities.”

“The Family First Community Center is an incredible asset to the Renton community, working to help all families, kids, and seniors thrive,” said County Councilmember Reagan Dunn, who presented the grant with Councilmember De’Sean Quinn. “I am proud to continue to support their incredible work.”

From the county website: “The VSHSL provides funding and partners with organizations that offer programs and services to help King County residents achieve housing and financial stability, become more socially connected and engaged, increase health and wellness, and access systems and services that support their individual needs.”

“Family First provides programs for all-ages, from toddlers to teens to adults and seniors,” said Quinn. “It is dedicated to providing an intergenerational, positive, supportive environment that promotes wellness in our community. Family First model programming makes King County a great place to live”