We are delighted to take this moment to express our heartfelt gratitude to WSU Kitsap Extension’s very own Paisley Gallagher for her outstanding dedication and service to the Kitsap Harvest gleaning program over the past 7 years. Paisley will be transitioning away from leading the Kitsap Harvest program work at the end of 2024.
Kitsap Harvest was initiated within the Kitsap Public Health District (KPHD) in 2016, emerging from a recognition of its potential to positively impact local community health. The premise for the program was to reduce food waste and increase access to fresh, locally grown produce. To do so, it focused on “gleaning,” which involves collecting surplus fruits and vegetables from farms, gardens, and yards. The food is then distributed to local food banks, shelters, senior centers, and other community organizations that support individuals in need.
Paisley was hired on as an Americorps Vista under KPHD in 2017 to support the creation of the Kitsap Harvest program. In 2018, the program, along with Paisley, transitioned to being housed under WSU Kitsap Extension to allow the program to evolve and grow further, addressing the ever-pressing need for food access in our community. Though housed within Extension, the overarching goal was to move the program towards sustainability through creation of its own organizational structure and eventually nonprofit status. In 2022, the program officially became a recognized Federal nonprofit. Paisley has played a pivotal role in shaping the goals and commitments of Kitsap Harvest, accompanying the program’s transition to WSU and furthering its growth towards becoming its own nonprofit. During this evolution, Paisley’s dedication and enthusiasm for the program has been truly inspiring; it’s clear that she has poured her heart and soul into this body of work and that shows through the connections and partnerships she has created.
As we celebrate Paisley’s remarkable achievements, we are equally excited to announce her transition to a new role within WSU Kitsap Extension. Starting in January 2025, Paisley will be taking on the position of Sustainable Living & Development Coordinator for WSU Kitsap Extension. In this new capacity, she will bring her wealth of experience and passion to spearhead initiatives that align with educating the community around topics of sustainability including, composting, recycling, food safety, food access and more.
We are confident that Paisley will continue to excel and make significant contributions to the Kitsap community in this new role. Please join us in thanking Paisley for her exceptional service with Kitsap Harvest and wishing her all the best as she embarks on this exciting new chapter in her career with Extension.
Jess Sappington
Interim Director, WSU Kitsap Extension
