The featured partner this month is Keystone Community Services. Founded in 1939 by community volunteers, Keystone Community Services is a multi-service nonprofit organization that provides high-quality social services in the community and in neighborhood gathering places to support and strengthen individuals, families and communities. For over 75 years, Keystone has maintained a consistent mission while remaining responsive to the changing needs of the community. Keystone has seven sites throughout the St. Paul area and serves more than 30,000 people through services in the areas of basic needs, youth school success and healthy development, youth employment, and senior services. More than 3,000 community volunteers make their work possible!
Keystone believes that all of our neighbors in need should have access to vital support to be self-sufficient, stable and successful. To be successful, individuals and families in our community need access to healthy food resources. Keystone has expanded food support programs by increasing distributions through the Foodmobile (mobile food shelf program) and continuing to offer free farmers market events throughout the summer growing season. Throughout all of the food programs, providing healthy food options is their top priority. This year, Keystone participated in the pilot of the Healthy Eating Inventory (HEI) and our program rated highly with an 80 HEI score. For comparison, the average American diet rates a 56. To encourage healthy food choices, Keystone is currently participating with the Super Shelf program, along with three other metro area programs. Through the program Keystone is applying retail store design principles to help shape participant behavior toward choosing the healthiest foods. The project is working toward increasing utilization of fresh produce and making healthy choices more attractive to food shelf participants. Through all these efforts, Keystone is supporting individuals and families in need by giving them access to nutritious food.
Keystone’s biggest event of the year is right around the corner! The annual fun-raising event, Keys to Success Event, is scheduled for September 28 and will take place at the Merriam Park Community Center. Tickets are only $35 and all proceeds from the event will help support the 30,000 neighbors in need on our community who rely on Keystone for support. Sign up to mingle with your neighbors, enjoy delicious food and drinks, and win “keys” for our surprise raffle. Buy your ticket on Keystone’s website or find event information on their Facebook page.
Keystone Community Services relies on the generous support of the community to further their mission. You can donate to or volunteer with Keystone Community Services to support neighbors in need. Head to their website to learn more and get involved.