LEE COUNTY, Ky. — Just a few months after its grand opening, Red River Gorge Coffee Co. is already making a meaningful impact in its community through a weekly food sharing program.
Owner Anna Moore has felt the warmth of local support since day one. “We quickly got regulars who come in every day. It feels great,” she shared.
Inspired by this community spirit, Anna decided to place a cooler full of unsold food outside her shop every Monday from 2 to 3 p.m. This fresh food is free for anyone who needs it. “When I learned that people go hungry, tossing food out just didn’t sit right with me. We need to help,” she explained.
The cooler features a variety of items, such as baked goods and her mom’s famous chicken salad, along with healthier options like pasta salad cups and fruit. Anna, a young mother herself, is especially aware of the growing need, especially with recent concerns about the future of SNAP benefits.
“This is the perfect time to step up when people might need it the most,” Anna said. She believes there’s no shame in seeking help. “We all need support sometimes—it’s just part of life.”
This initiative not only feeds those in need but also reinforces community bonds. Studies show that acts of kindness can improve community ties and mental well-being. According to a recent survey from the Pew Research Center, about 58% of Americans say volunteering can significantly strengthen community connections.
Red River Gorge Coffee Co. is located inside the Three Rivers Inn on KY-11 N. Anna’s efforts reflect a growing trend of small businesses stepping up to support local families, creating a wave of hope in uncertain times. For more information about community initiatives like this, you can read related articles on organizations like Feeding America or visit Pew Research Center.
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