Together with many members of the community, Goosefoot Community Fund (Goosefoot) and Whidbey Community Foundation (WCF), joined this year by Island Thrift, partnered for a fifth year to raise over $146,229 for the Essential Needs Program. Goosefoot, WCF & Island Thrift continue to work with Opportunity Council – Island County Service Center to administer funds to support our neighbors year-around, covering gaps not filled by government programs.
Donations have been used to:
- assist a household to replace furniture due to a house fire
- help a senior avoid losing propane tanks by paying outstanding bill
- support a couple with restoring their water service due to overwhelming medical bills
- cover cremation services for a grieving widow
Whether you donated directly, rounded up at the Goose Community Grocer, or helped spread the word–we thank you for making the 5th annual fundraiser a huge success! Together we have helped over 600 households, the majority of whom earn less than 30% of the median income in Island County. For those that receive this support, a small amount can make or break whether they can continue to contribute to, participate in and enrich our community. We all benefit when our neighbors have their essential needs met.
“The Whidbey Essential Needs program, has allowed us to assist those who are most vulnerable in our community. They are people just like you and I or you grandparent, sibling, parent, cousin, or neighbor, who are going through a tough time and need a boost to keep them housed, keep food on the table or to keep the heat and/or lights on.”– Staff Member, Opportunity Council- Island County Service Center
Starting in early 2025, the fundraiser was seeded with $70,000 ($25K each from Goosefoot and WCF, and $20k from Island Thrift) with a goal of $100,000. The Goose Community Grocer again designated the program as their Roundup for Charity recipient in April and August, raising over $13,800. Because of the charitable nature of our community, these funds will go directly to households who need it most. Thank you, Whidbey! Donors can still contribute to the program at any time by making a direct donation to WCF or Goosefoot with a memo marking funds for the “Essential Needs Program.”
“Tough times can arrive for anyone at any time. We are forever grateful to WCF, Goosefoot and Island Thrift for their coordination of this fundraiser and to the generous community members who continue to support our efforts to assist those on our island who are most vulnerable!” – Melissa Brown, Director, Opportunity Council- Island County Service Center
Goosefoot, WCF and Island Thrift are extremely grateful for the continued community support. They extend their gratitude to the Opportunity Council for their dedication to helping our community members directly. And also extend a huge thank you to the entire team at The Goose Community Grocer for their enthusiastic support of this cause and for their Roundup for Charity Program, benefitting many different local organizations. They are looking forward to another successful fundraising campaign in 2026!
Learn more at www.whidbeyfoundation.org/essential-needs-program/.
Assistance is available via Opportunity Council: www.oppco.org/locations/island-county/.
About Whidbey Community Foundation
The Whidbey Community Foundation (WCF) is a philanthropic organization focused on fostering a strong, connected, and resilient community on Whidbey Island. WCF provides financial support to nonprofit organizations and initiatives that serve the island’s most pressing needs. Through its programs and grants, WCF works to enhance local education, health, arts, and environmental stewardship. The Foundation believes in the power of collaboration and community-driven solutions, and the Essential Needs Program is just one example of how WCF is addressing urgent challenges facing island residents.
Visit www.whidbeyfoundation.org for more information.
About Goosefoot Community Fund
Goosefoot Community Fund is a nonprofit organization dedicated to enhancing the quality of life for residents of South Whidbey Island. By providing grants and fostering community initiatives, Goosefoot helps support local nonprofits, enhance economic development, and improve the overall well-being of the island’s residents. Through collaborations like the Essential Needs Program, Goosefoot strives to make a tangible difference in the lives of those who need it most, empowering individuals and building a more resilient community.
Visit www.goosefoot.org for more information.
About Island Thrift
Island Thrift is a nonprofit organization based in Oak Harbor, Washington, that provides affordable, gently-used goods to the local community while supporting a variety of charitable causes on Whidbey Island. Through its thrift store, Island Thrift generates vital funding to support programs and services for local residents, particularly those facing financial hardship. Island Thrift partners with organizations like Goosefoot and WCF to ensure that island families have access to critical resources and assistance, making a positive impact on the community in meaningful ways.
Visit www.islandthriftoakharbor.org for more information.
About The Goose Community Grocer
The Goose Community Grocer is a cooperative grocery store located on South Whidbey Island, focused on providing high-quality, locally-sourced, and affordable food to its members and the broader community. The store is driven by a mission to strengthen the local economy, promote sustainability, and support the health and well-being of its customers. As part of its commitment to community, The Goose Community Grocer regularly supports initiatives like the Essential Needs Program, ensuring that all residents have access to essential services and resources when they need them most.
Visit www.goosegrocer.com for more information.