Donations boost Nana’s Southern Kitchen giveaway in Kent to 800 meals

A last-minute donation by a Microsoft executive helped boost Nana’s Southern Kitchen in Kent Christmas Day free meal distribution to 800 meals from 250 to help people who need a good meal.

Judson Althoff, Microsoft executive vice president and chief commercial officer, led the effort donating 500 meals, according to a Friday, Dec. 22 email from Todd Minor, owner of Nana’s Southern Kitchen.

Two other Microsoft employees, Laura Longcore, vice president of Worldwide Learning, and Ron Mills (and his family), lead software developer, each donated 50 meals.

Rodney Clark, Seattle-based senior vice president of Partnerships and Small & Medium Business for the California technology company Cisco, led the initial effort, donating 100 meals to reach the original tally of 250 meals announced earlier in the week. Kent’s Pacific Coast Fruit Company is providing fresh produce for the event.

More than 25 other individuals contributed to the effort, donating 1 to 50 meals.

“We’re so thankful to each and every one of you,” Nana’s posted on its Facebook page.

Nana’s Southern Kitchen will provide the meals from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. (or until meals run out) on Dec. 25 at 10234 SE 256th St.

The free meal includes a main dish with two sides per person. Staff asks that everyone bring their patience as they serve 800 customers.

This is the fourth year that Nana’s will give free meals to anyone in need.