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Marin County residents soon will be able to access health services, nutrition assistance and community programs at a new hub opening in Northgate Mall in San Rafael.
The Kove is a collaborative effort led by Sally Newson, executive director of nonprofit Karma Club, a free teen study and maker space also in the mall.
Every Saturday beginning Aug. 1 from 10 a.m. to noon, residents of all ages will be able to shop at a free food pantry, connect with neighbors, and learn how to live better and healthier.
A weekly food pantry for enrolled Marin County residents will be supported by the nonprofits San Francisco-Marin Food Bank and ExtraFood. Sutter Health, Marin Community Clinics and Dominican University of California will provide educational programing and connect residents with programs like CalFresh and Medi-Cal.
"It should be easier for people to access the support they need and feel connected to the community around them," said Newson. "The Kove is a place where people can find support, build relationships, and know they belong."
Sutter Health will bring in physicians and other healthcare providers to address relevant health topics, like fall prevention. The organization has already partnered with Karma Club for a few years on a workforce development initiative for under-resourced communities, according to Bindi Gandhi, director of external affairs for Sutter Health. "We provided funding for stipends to participate in their summer institute last year and this year we are sponsoring front office medical assisting training programs," Gandhi said.
Organizers envision the 2,100-square-foot space serving as a year-round center for nonprofit collaboration, youth and family programing, volunteer activities and community events as more organizations join the collective.
Interested residents are invited to enroll a week ahead of the opening of the food pantry on Saturday from 10 a.m. to noon.
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