Our Story

  • 1970

    Founded in 1970, our organization was born from the collective vision of 17 pastors who were inspired by the spirit of the ecumenical movement. With a shared goal of fostering collaboration and unity, we set out to create a forum that would bring together clergy and laypersons alike.

  • 1982

    Volunteers gathered every Thursday evening at Honeydew Elementary School in the Renton Highlands to cook and serve a meal for anyone who came. The meal continued for over 30 years until 2012.

  • 1983

    Since 1983, REACH has hosted and sponsored the annual Renton CROP hunger walk. Twenty-five percent of the total raised stays in Renton to support feeding programs.

  • 2004

    REACH's task force designed and implemented a shelter called ARISE (Area of Renton Interfaith Shelter Endeavor), that rotates on a monthly basis between various churches to provide overnight shelter for up to 25 homeless men. In 2007 this program was put under the auspices of Catholic Community Services.

  • 2007

    In response to a pressing community need, took action by lobbying the Renton City government. Our aim was to establish a bus line connecting apartments in the Talbot Hill area to downtown markets. This initiative sought to address the challenges faced by residents and improve access to essential resources.

  • 2007

    REACH held monthly meetings were at Renton First United Methodist Church until 2007. Then meeting rotated between partner churches.

  • 2012

    In 2012, we took a significant step by becoming an incorporated 501(c)(3) organization, solidifying our commitment to serving the community and making a lasting impact.

  • 2013

    REACH Renton opened Center of Hope with a day shelter located in Renton City Hall. Overnight shelter was initially provided at various churches on a monthly rotating basis. The Center of Hope shelter now operates 24/7 365 days a year.

  • 2013

    REACH assembled a group to explore combination of how meals are given to the individuals in need in Renton, WA.

  • 2015

    REACH inherited preparing and serving the weekend meals (Friday, Saturday, Sunday) and serving breakfast to those in need 5 mornings a week. Serving locations have varied and permanent housing is being sought.​​​

"I’ve been the person who needed help to get out of homelessness, now I am able to give back through my lived experience"