Organizations in Pike County form network to provide food and support for local needs

Kathy Hamilton, executive director of the Pikeville Community Kitchen, reported a significant rise in the number of unhoused individuals seeking assistance, with a family of four, including two children, recently living in their car. The kitchen, located on Main Street, has seen its daily morning meal service triple in recent weeks. Hamilton emphasized the growing need for support as temperatures drop, raising concerns for those without shelter.

Across town, the Grace Community Kitchen, led by executive director Debby Bailey, is also experiencing an increase in demand for meals served every Monday and Thursday. Bailey noted that many individuals struggling with basic needs, such as high energy bills and inflation, are turning to these services for help. The rising costs in Eastern Kentucky have placed additional strain on families and individuals already facing economic hardship.

As colder weather approaches, both Hamilton and Bailey are worried about the impact on the unhoused population. They are urging residents to become aware of available resources, emphasizing that multiple organizations in Pikeville are working together to meet the community’s needs. Their efforts are rooted in a shared commitment to serving those in need, regardless of the specific location or organization involved.

A collaborative network has been established among the Pikeville Community Kitchen, the Grace Community Kitchen, the East Kentucky Dream Center, and several nearby churches. This network ensures that free breakfast is available every morning and that lunch is accessible somewhere in the city each day of the week. The coordination among these groups reflects a unified approach to addressing the growing challenges faced by the community.

The Pikeville Community Kitchen provides breakfast for unsheltered individuals every weekday, while First Christian Church offers meals on the last Tuesday of each month, and Pikeville Wesleyan Church serves meals on the third Friday. Hamilton described the collaboration as a practical and effective way to pool resources and responsibilities, stating, “Just get your churches together… And it works. It is working.”

In addition to meal services, the community is also offering blessing bags, blessing boxes, and food pantries. These initiatives rely on donations and support from those who are able to contribute. Bailey expressed gratitude for the community’s generosity, stating, “We love our community. We love the people in our community. And we truly want to help them. And by the grace of God, we are able to do so.”

The collective efforts of these organizations highlight the importance of neighbor-love and practical support in times of need. As they continue to serve the community, their work reflects a commitment to justice, mercy, and humble service, aligning with the biblical call to care for the vulnerable.

Source: Read the original report