What We Do

The Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Community Center is the only true community center in Newport County.

Located in the Off Broadway/Washington Square area of Newport, the MLK Community Center has served as a vibrant neighborhood gathering place for generations of Newporters. 

Together, A Stronger Newport County

The MLK is as impactful and meaningful to the 3-year-old toddler entering his first day of preschool as it is to our breakfast program clients who join us daily for a nutritious meal shared with friends.  The MLK is the story of families who have seen first-hand the effects of a sluggish economy but find compassion and support when they arrive at our Food Pantry.  It’s the story of hard-working families who want the best for their children and watch them thrive through the programs offered in our Preschool, Afterschool Program, and Summer Camp.  It’s the story of moving families from hunger to health through our nutrition and wellness programs.  It’s the story if hundreds of volunteers giving back to their community in ways great and small.

We believe that education opens the door to opportunity and ensures both children and adults have a greater chance of living fulfilling lives.  We believe that every child who goes to bed hungry is a child left behind.  And every adult who goes to bed hungry is an adult who cannot focus on providing for their family.  We believe that all people have the right to determine their future: therefore, we encourage and support our clients to make choices that will improve their health and well-being.  By holistically meeting the needs of the families we serve, we are making a difference in our own backyard.

Dezarae's Story
"I give to you because you're the anchor in this community. You do the work that needs to be done, you help the people that need to be helped. The way I see it, if the MLK doesn't do it, who will?"
MLK Donor