For the Reporter<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/p>\n KentHOPE invites the public for a Good Friday Journey to the Cross at 1:30 p.m. on April 18.<\/p>\n<\/p>\n The walk will include prayer stations with pastors and congregations leading scripture readings.<\/p>\n<\/p>\n The walk will begin in Kaibara Park on First Avenue between West Smith and West Meeker. The walk will continue to City Hall, followed by a site location under consideration for a 24-hour center and shelter, and finally, end at Kaibara Park.<\/p>\n<\/p>\n KentHOPE is organizing the walk to show concern for the homeless and to bring attention to the three years of effort to establish the KentHOPE Resource Center, a 24-hour resource center and shelter in Kent. KentHOPE’s mission is to build community by providing stable pathways out of homelessness while caring for body, mind and spirit.<\/p>\n<\/p>\n According to KentHOPE Chair Pat Gray: “The resource center, in order to meet immediate needs and long-term solutions, should be close to Kent’s other social services and community resources. The recent One-Night Count found 63 unsheltered people in Kent, and there are 420 homeless students in the Kent School District. It is time for a permanent location to serve our neighbors who are experiencing homelessness, and the time to act is now.”<\/p>\n<\/p>\n Kaibara Park is just south of the Kent Metro Station. Carpooling and public transportation are encouraged. The Kent Station parking garage is within walking distance.<\/p>\n<\/p>\n Donations of nonperishable food items will be accepted.<\/p>\n<\/p>\n KentHOPE, which is dedicated to reducing homelessness in the community, is a partnership of churches and faith-based groups, Seattle’s Union Gospel Mission, Valley Cities Counseling, businesses, community service agencies and concerned citizens.<\/p>\n<\/p>\n