The Home Front, World War I

In support of the American campaign during World War I, local growers donated to the Kanning Kitchen surplus fruits and vegetables, which were packaged by volunteers from women's associations such as the Portland Railroad Women's Club and local sorority chapters. The kitchen was located at the Sargent Hotel, on the corner of Grand Avenue and Hawthorne Boulevard, and was run by the National League for Women's Service. The league was established in 1917 by U.S. Secretary of State James W. Wilson with the purpose of promoting "constructive patriotism." It was most active during World Wars I and II, although founders envisioned that during peacetime it would also provide assistance in the event of natural disasters and economic crises.