Access began in 1981 as a faith-based organization to bring congregations in Kent County together to address basic human needs. In 1990, we were asked to organize and coordinate the food pantry network in Kent County. In the 1990’s, we began facilitating poverty simulation workshops to help our community understand the complex issues of poverty. Our three main focuses remain, but have evolved in many ways over the years.

Today, the values that Access upholds throughout our three main initiatives include community development, food justice, economic development, and equity. Our work ranges from housing collaborative food systems programs including a food prescription program and a farm to pantry program, to facilitating workshops that simulate an experience in poverty and employing individuals with barriers to work, to assisting congregations in developing best practices in engaging issues of poverty in their neighborhoods. Throughout our programs, Access’ vision is to cultivate a community rooted in equitable systems.