Growing roots: concord nonprofit offers support to unhoused community
A lifeline in concord: growing roots
in the heart of concord, california, a remarkable effort is taking root. two women, kelly mckinley and andie altman, have spearheaded grass roots outreach warriors (grow concord), a nonprofit dedicated to providing vital support to the approximately 2,000 unhoused individuals in contra costa county. operating out of two concord parks, the organization offers more than just a meal; it offers a sense of community and dignity.
From surplus to sustenance: the genesis of grow concord
the story began in 2022 with a simple act of generosity. mckinley was diverting excess fruit from a local school that would otherwise have gone to waste. this sparked the idea of "ten-dollar meals" – providing affordable, nutritious meals to those in need. word spread rapidly through Social Media, and with altman's help, they officially established grow concord. the initial vision was simple: to offer a welcoming space where individuals experiencing homelessness could find a safe meal and feel seen.
A community blossoms: impact and reach
since its inception, grow concord has served over 32,000 free meals. this translates to 300 hot meals, six days a week, distributed between baldwin park and cowell park. the nonprofit relies heavily on private donations, alongside the dedication of volunteers from churches, businesses, and schools – a testament to the community’s willingness to respond to a critical need. beyond food, the organization also provides:
- donated clothing
- basic supplies
- pet food
- weekly showers and laundry
- connections to resources, including sober living options
Transforming lives: personal stories of hope
the impact of grow concord extends far beyond providing sustenance. the organization has become a catalyst for personal transformation. stacy lestrange, a former unhoused individual, credits the organization with providing a sense of family and a pathway to a better life. now employed, housed, and in recovery for two years, she volunteers with grow concord, offering support to others who once walked the same difficult path. "they're good people. they have big hearts," she says.
More than just meals: fostering connection and change
mckinley and altman are deeply moved by the stories of those they’ve helped reconnect with their families and achieve sobriety. "it was to create a community of people that didn’t have a community," explains altman. mckinley emphasizes the collective effort: "it kept going, and it ended up being a community labor of love."
| Statistic | Details | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| Meals ServedTAG87 | Over 32,000 | ||
| Meals per Week | 300 | ||
| Parks Served | Baldwin Park & Cowell Park | ||
| Years in Operation | Since 2022 |
Looking ahead: a sustainable future
grow concord’s success hinges on continued community support. the organization actively seeks donations and volunteers to ensure it can continue providing essential services and fostering a sense of hope for those experiencing homelessness in contra costa county. it’s a testament to the power of grassroots efforts and the profound impact of human connection.