KENT, WA – Open Doors for Multicultural Families (ODMF) is honored to announce US Senator Patty Murray secured $614,000 in Fiscal Year 2026 Congressionally Directed Spending to support the development of the ODMF Early Learning Center, a vital piece of the organization’s vision of a world where all culturally and linguistically diverse individuals with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities, and their families thrive in an inclusive society of their own design. The federal funding was made possible through the recent federal appropriations package authored and championed by U.S. Senator Patty Murray, the Vice Chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee.
ODMF will use this investment to fund the Furniture, Fixtures, and Equipment (FFE) for the ODMF Early Learning Center. The new center will offer inclusive early learning opportunities for children with and without disabilities in the city of Kent and surrounding Seattle/Tacoma area.
The Early Learning Center will be part of the Multicultural Village (MCV), a visionary community development project being designed in partnership between Open Doors for Multicultural Families and Mercy Housing Northwest. The MCV is an innovative, inclusive project that seeks to bring affordable and accessible housing, disability services, and early learning under one roof. The Multicultural Village is scheduled to break ground in March 2026, marking a major milestone in ODMF’s long-term vision for community centered support.
“We are deeply grateful for this transformative investment in our community,” stated Nicole Barker, Executive Director of Open Doors for Multicultural Families. “The Early Learning Center will anchor the Multicultural Village, breaking barriers that have limited families’ access to early learning and fostering inclusion and belonging. This funding moves us toward a future where every family, regardless of language, culture, or disability, can fully access vital resources and opportunities that would otherwise remain out of reach today.”
Open Doors for Multicultural Families wishes to thank Senator Murray for her tireless efforts in providing visionary funding that uplifts diverse families in Washington State.
About Open Doors for Multicultural Families
Open Doors for Multicultural Families is a nonprofit organization dedicated to serving individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families, with a focus on immigrant, refugee, and communities of color. ODMF provides culturally and linguistically responsive programs that promote inclusion, empowerment, and lifelong support.
For media inquiries or to support ODMF’s work, please contact: Andrea Kassa, Director of Development, 253.216.4479, development@opendoorswa.org, opendoorswa.org