The Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Community Center recently held a ribbon-cutting ceremony for its newly renovated facility at 20 Dr. Marcus Wheatland Boulevard in Newport, RI, marking the culmination of 13 months of construction.
This significant milestone not only honors the legacy of Dr. King, but also signifies the commencement of the “Great Program Migration,” welcoming back the Center’s diverse and vital programs to their improved and modernized home.
BankNewport helped play a pivotal role in this transformative journey by awarding a $200,000 grant in 2022 to the MLK Center’s Building Hope Campaign, specifically for their new, state-of-the-art food pantry.
“BankNewport expresses its deep gratitude to the MLK Center staff and volunteers and to those community members who contributed to making the building campaign a reality,” said Jack Murphy, President and CEO of BankNewport. “The renovated Center and its food pantry represent a beacon of hope, nourishment, and support for Newport County residents, embodying the MLK Center’s mission to improve economic, social, and physical well-being.”
The food pantry, a critical component of the MLK Center’s offerings, reopened on January 17, 2024, after moving from a temporary location. It provides non-perishable food, frozen meats, fresh milk, eggs, produce, bread, and household and personal care items. Thanks to the unwavering dedication of volunteers and staff, the pantry is stocked. It serves the community with operating hours on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. and Wednesday evenings from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. On Tuesdays and Thursdays, volunteers assemble grocery orders for delivery to homebound seniors.
Established in 1922 and renamed in 1968 to honor Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., the MLK Center has been a cornerstone of community support, education, and nourishment. The recent renovations are a continuation of this legacy, ensuring that the center can meet the growing needs of Newport County residents with enhanced facilities and services.
Read More about the project
MLK Community Center cuts the ribbon on renovated building after 13-month construction project
MLK Center to open two public tours of newly renovated building
