Post photo by J. Reed

By Judy Reed

It’s been around for almost 38 years, serving the northern Kent county community—from 6 mile north to the county line—with food, shelter, utilities support, clothing, counseling and more. Technically known as the Rockford community services center, it began being called the North Kent service center sometime in the 1980s. However, effective October 1, the center changed its name to North Kent Community Services.
“We wanted to put ‘community’ back in our name to better reflect what we do,” said executive director Sandy Waite. “We are blessed to have the opportunity to help our neighbors in need in northern Kent County, but we also want to emphasize that we are a part of the local communities in which we serve. We want our influence to extend well beyond the walls of our facility.”
As part of the name change, NKCS unveiled a new identity, with a new logo that reflects its heritage and mission, said Waite. “We believe our new identity highlights our ongoing mission to love our neighbor. We are blessed to be able to do so.”
Their hours will remain the same, open Monday through Thursday from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. and closed Friday, Saturday and Sunday. The donation area will be open, however.