Local feeding programs spotlight their missions, volunteer needs

Two programs devoted to providing food for those in need, Aaron McNeil House, Inc. and Breaking Bread Community Dinner Church appeared at Thursday’s Hopkinsville Kiwanis Club meeting to spotlight how they serve the community and how those interested can support their efforts.

Aaron McNeil House Director, Kurt Anderson shared that the nonprofit hosts multiple services such as crisis assistance, youth education and their Emergency Food Assistance Program. For the program, Anderson says they host monthly food distributions on the second Saturday of each month at the Western Kentucky Fairgrounds.

The nonprofit is delivered food shipments from Feeding America and Anderson says he and volunteers pack the food into boxes to give to those in need. Each month, McNeil says they provide food to at least 700 households.

The next food distribution day is set for Saturday from 8 a.m. to 10 a.m. at the fairgrounds. Along with food distribution, Anderson says they have a food pantry that is open Monday through Friday and they are always accepting donations for the pantry.

Those interested in learning more about the programs offered by Aaron McNeil House can visit aaronmcneil.org.

Breaking Bread is a weekly feeding program hosted at Aaron McNeil House, and is directed by Donna Williams. Williams says they serve meals on Thursdays and each week they serve up to 500 meals and so far in 2024 they have served around 50,000 meals.

Looking toward the holiday season, Williams says they are planning to make Thanksgiving meals and are seeking turkey donations.

Williams says Breaking Bread is completely volunteer and donation driven so she is always looking for some extra help. Those interested in donating or volunteering with Breaking Bread can contact Williams at 773-848-5113.