Leah Stockton, director of development and engagement for Keys Health and Housing, joined Good Morning Keys on Keys Talk 96.9/102.5FM this morning to talk about the organization.
Keys Health and Housing brings together the legacies of A.H. Monroe and the Florida Keys Outreach Coalition under one unified approach to health and housing.
A.H. Monroe is celebrating its 40th anniversary this year, while the Florida Keys Outreach Coalition has a decades-long history of helping people experiencing homelessness and other challenges.
One of the lesser-known services now offered through Keys Health and Housing is the Loaves and Fish Food Pantry at the William Neese Center, 2221 Patterson Avenue. The pantry is operated primarily by volunteers and supported by donations from individuals, businesses, civic organizations and churches.
Stockton said, “By someone being able to come to the food pantry and get their food for free there, it frees up their budget and their limited financial resources to then take care of the other things: rent, utilities, medical bills, childcare, whatever the other things are in their life.”
The pantry typically serves between 260 and 270 households each month, but that number increased by about 25 families last month.
She also emphasized the partnership between Keys Health and Housing and SOS Food Pantry, which includes nutrition education, hands-on cooking lessons, grocery store visits and trips to the food pantry.
Stockton encouraged residents who need assistance to use the Loaves and Fish Food Pantry and urged those who are able to help to donate nonperishable food items.
She said donations can be dropped off at 2221 Patterson Avenue, where volunteers will help unload vehicles.
Keys Health and Housing will also be participating in Fantasy Fest next month. The organization will provide HIV prevention information and resources at the street fair, including free HIV testing information and condoms. The organization will also participate in the Fantasy Fest parade, continuing a tradition that dates back to the organization’s former royal king and queen campaigns.
Stockton said the organization’s message is simple for anyone in the community who needs assistance or wants to help.
“If you need help, give me a call. If you’re looking to help, also give me a call,” she said.
More information about Keys Health and Housing and its services is available at keyshh.org.