Groundbreaking Ceremony Launches Construction of New Facility

🌟 Exciting News from Helpline House: We’re Breaking Ground on a New Facility!

Bainbridge Island, WA – June 7, 2025

We’re thrilled to share some fantastic news with our wonderful community: Helpline House has officially kicked off construction of our new facility at 282 Knechtel Way NE! This is a huge step forward in making our vision a reality—one that focuses on compassion, dignity, and neighborly care for everyone.

Surrounded by over 100 amazing supporters, volunteers, and community leaders, our groundbreaking ceremony was a heartwarming celebration of what we can achieve together.

✨ "This place is more than a food bank, more than a building. It is a sanctuary of dignity, a promise to every neighbor who finds themselves in a moment of need: you are not alone," said Washington State Representative Greg Nance.  “This project is a wise and worthy investment by the state and by our community. This isn't charity; it's compassion in action. It's common sense. It's good government. It's smart policy.” His inspiring words reminded us all why this project is so important.

Our Executive Director, Maria Metzler, shared her thoughts, noting:

"Today we honor our past and the remarkable individuals who built Helpline House, and we look ahead with great anticipation. The needs are growing and evolving, and so are we—with renewed energy, bold vision, and a deep gratitude for a community that shows up again and again,"

Our Board President, Joan Hemphill, added, "The new larger facility will allow us to truly serve as a community hub." Hemphill also emphasized, "Throughout the design and fundraising process, Helpline House has continued to see a record number of shoppers coming through our doors, and thanks to the generous support of our community, we are now in a position to better meet these needs.”

The new 12,700-square-foot building will allow us to enhance our services, including food access, free mental health counseling, and social services. We want to ensure that no neighbor goes unseen or unsupported.

Thanks to the amazing generosity of our community and a $2.5 million grant from the State of Washington, we’ve raised over $11 million towards our $12 million capital campaign goal. We’re almost there, and we would love your help to cross the finish line!

💛 Join Us on This Journey!

Whether you decide to make a donation, spread the word, or simply learn more, your support helps us create a future where everyone has a place to turn.

👉 Visit our Capital Campaign Website to dig

into our vision, watch our campaign video, and make a donation or share it with your friends and family.

Building a Better Bainbridge

Thank you, Bainbridge Island! This is your Helpline House—and together, we’re building something truly special.

With gratitude and warm wishes,

The Helpline House Team