Sacks and boxes of blankets and sleeping bags, coats and jackets, gloves and socks, stocking caps and hats quickly filled the restaurant’s hallway.

Volunteers smiled as they went about accepting and organizing the stream of donations.

Individuals, groups, agencies and businesses converged at Golden Steer Steak ‘n Rib House on Dec. 3 to generously give back to those in need during the Hope for Families event presented by Willow’s Place and HomeStreet Bank.

The fundraiser supports struggling families. Those who donated to the cause received a free lunch at the restaurant, a program partner. More than $2,500 was collected.

According to Sally Goodgion, director of Willow’s Place, donations will go to those in need. The main distributors include the Kent Fire Department, Kent Lutheran Church, Seattle’s Union Gospel Mission, Catholic Community Services, Hope’s Place, and KentHOPE.

Willow’s Place, a local nonprofit organization, is dedicated to clothing the homeless and feeding the hungry. It has been instrumental in engaging local restaurants, businesses and religious, civic and service organizations.

Since its informal beginnings several years ago, Willow’s Place has grown and remained steadfast. It serves up to 120 individuals on any given Thursday night – offering soup at 4:30 p.m., dinner at 5 – at Kent Lutheran Church, 336 Second Ave S.

For more information or to donate to Willow’s Place, contact Goodgion at 253-852-0880 or catalysttravel@hotmail.com.