News Summary
Appalachian Regional Healthcare (ARH) and God’s Pantry Food Bank have launched a food drive in Eastern Kentucky and Southern West Virginia to combat food insecurity. Starting February 7, 2025, drop-off locations are available at all ARH hospitals. The community effort aims to address the pressing need for food, especially in regions with high poverty rates. With volunteer-led initiatives like the Hazel Green Food Project, local families will benefit from non-perishable food donations and enhanced support services.
Appalachian Communities Unite to Tackle Food Insecurity
Food Drive Kicks Off in Eastern Kentucky and Southern West Virginia
In a heartwarming initiative aimed at ensuring no one goes hungry in Eastern Kentucky and Southern West Virginia, Appalachian Regional Healthcare (ARH) has teamed up with God’s Pantry Food Bank for a system-wide food drive. Launched on February 7, 2025, this food drive is set to make a real difference in the lives of numerous families struggling with food insecurity.
Drop-off Points Available Across the Region
For those wishing to lend a hand, all ARH hospitals and the Lexington system center have been designated as drop-off locations for non-perishable food donations. You can swing by and drop off items that can help local families face their daily meals without stress. Best of all, the food donated will be distributed by God’s Pantry Food Bank, ensuring that it stays right here in our local communities where it is needed the most.
Understanding Food Insecurity
Food insecurity is a pressing issue, especially in the Appalachian region. Many families find themselves relying on local food banks more than ever. In fact, last year alone, God’s Pantry distributed a staggering 32.9 million pounds of food, which translated into around 27.5 million meals. That’s a monumental achievement, yet it highlights the vast need that still exists—especially among those in the most affected areas.
Community Efforts Making an Impact
One shining example of community action is the Hazel Green Food Project, initiated by Nicky Stacy. This program has been showing steady turnout, reflecting the urgent needs of the community. The Food Project operates without questioning income levels, which means that individuals and families from various counties can benefit. It’s not just about food; volunteers also distribute a range of items including furniture and children’s toys, offering a support network that extends beyond meal provisions.
Supporting Local Needs During Holidays
The Hazel Green Food Project also excels at responding to immediate needs, particularly around the holidays. Every Thanksgiving, volunteers work hard to provide turkeys and all the fixings to families in need. The effort is truly a testament to the love and cooperation found in the community, as local businesses like Lion Apparel and the Chop Shop step up to donate meat products and other supplies.
The Struggle is Real
In Wolfe County, where the poverty rate is a staggering 36.8%—more than double the state average—and food insecurity stands at a staggering 22.8%, the situation calls for collective action. Volunteers like Henry Tolson emphasize just how essential community support is in these challenging times. Every can and contribution matters, making a tangible difference in someone’s life.
God’s Pantry Expands to Meet Growing Needs
With an eye on addressing the ongoing demand, God’s Pantry Food Bank has recently relocated to a new facility in Lexington, now boasting over 127,000 square feet of space to better serve the community. In fiscal year 2024 alone, they provided an incredible 38.9 million meals and aim to increase that to 50 million meals in the coming year. This revamped facility includes enhanced refrigeration, a production kitchen for meal preparation, and improved receiving capabilities, all designed to boost their impact in the region.
A Hopeful Future
The food drive launched by ARH and God’s Pantry marks a pivotal step in the fight against hunger in Eastern Kentucky and Southern West Virginia. With the community coming together, there is hope and a renewed sense of purpose as we work towards a future where **no one goes hungry**.
So as the skies turn from partly cloudy to a potential light drizzle later in the evening, let’s keep our spirits high and remember—small acts of kindness can create waves of change in our beloved Appalachian home.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Appalachian Regional Healthcare Launches Food Drive to Combat Hunger
Dahlhus Fudge Tackles School Lunch Debt in Lexington
Lexington Volunteers Unite for Annual Lex-Count Against Homelessness
London Residents Unite to Combat Food Insecurity Ahead of Thanksgiving
HealthFirst Bluegrass to Host Community Health Events in November to Enhance Healthcare Access
Exciting Times for Minnesota Schools: Universal Free Meals Approved
Additional Resources
- WBKO: Kentucky Veterans Brigade Food Drive
- Spectrum News1: St. Elizabeth’s Food Drive
- WNKY: Food Drive for Veterans
- Fox 56 News: Kentucky Food Bank Relocation
- GoSoin: Dare to Care Food Drive
- Wikipedia: Food Insecurity
- Google Search: Food Insecurity
- Google Scholar: Food Insecurity
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Food Insecurity
- Google News: Food Insecurity
Author: STAFF HERE LEXINGTON KY STAFF
The LEXINGTON STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERELexingtonKY.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Lexington, Fayette County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Woodland Art Fair, Crave Food and Music Festival, and Railbird Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like Commerce Lexington and Blue Grass Community Foundation, plus leading businesses in education, manufacturing, and technology that power the local economy such as University of Kentucky, Toyota Motor Manufacturing, and Lexmark. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBowlingGreen.com and HERELouisville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Kentucky's dynamic landscape.
