“We’re There When You Need Us!”
Kentucky Power Unites with Food Pantries
to Fight Hunger
Sasha Bush
The Ashland Beacon
Kentucky Power and WYMT are uniting once more to tackle hunger in Eastern Kentucky through their annual event, Power Up the Pantry. The fifth edition of this important annual food drive and fundraiser will take place on Thursday, September 26, bringing together local communities to support those in need and contribute to the fight against food insecurity.
But Kentucky Power needs your help to make this event a success. The Power Up the Pantry event offers a unique opportunity to make a tangible difference in the lives of our neighbors. This annual initiative aims to alleviate hunger by gathering both food and monetary donations for local food pantries.
Sadly, many people are not aware that there are thousands of families just in Eastern Kentucky that are affected by hunger. Many are surprised to learn that one in six people in our region are actively struggling with food insecurity. It is estimated that one in four children are at risk of going hungry.
The goal of this year’s event is to provide support for two critical organizations: God’s Pantry Food Bank and Facing Hunger Food Bank. These organizations serve food pantries and meal programs across various counties, including Hazard, Pikeville, and Prestonsburg, as well as Boyd, Greenup, Lawrence, and Martin counties.
Since its inception in 2019, Power Up the Pantry has collected over 26,000 pounds of food and raised more than $143,000 to support the cause. Organizers are hopeful for another successful year, with community support playing a crucial role. Amy Elliott, Vice President of External Affairs and Customer Service for Kentucky Power, highlighted the importance of community involvement: “We’re proud to be part of communities that support each other. Addressing hunger is a commitment we’ve made, and we hope everyone will join us in supporting these vital food banks. Together, we can make a significant difference.”
Liz Watson, Community Relations Officer at Facing Hunger Food Bank, emphasized the impact of the food drive by sharing, “On average, in the Kentucky counties we serve, there is a 20 percent overall food insecurity rate, with a 25 percent rate among children. Power Up the Pantry significantly aids our mission by ensuring we have the resources necessary to support our neighbors. We are deeply thankful for this impactful partnership.”
By participating in Power Up the Pantry, you will directly benefit God’s Pantry and Facing Hunger Food Banks, ensuring local food pantries are stocked and ready to assist those in need throughout Eastern Kentucky. Donations of non-expired, non-perishable foods, especially the “pop-top” kind that don’t require a tool to open, are greatly appreciated.
This year, the event includes a new virtual participation option. Donations made through the Virtual Food Drive will specifically support God’s Pantry Food Bank, focusing on need-based purchases to further their mission. Donations through the Virtual Food Drive will be used for purchasing essential items that align with the needs of God’s Pantry Food Bank. Giving is easy! Just scan the QR code to make a donation directly to the food banks. Monetary donations of any amount will also be gratefully accepted the day of the event. Pantry representatives report that for every dollar donated, their organization can collect, store and distribute enough food for eight meals. Every dollar makes a difference! Checks can be made to either God’s Pantry Food Bank or Facing Hunger Food Bank.
Join Kentucky Power in the fight against hunger by dropping off nonperishable food items on Sept. 26, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. at one of the following locations:
• Ashland Broadway Square: 300 16th St, Ashland, KY 41101
• Ashland Cannonsburg Walmart: 12504 US-60, Ashland, KY 41102
• Hazard Walmart: 120 Daniel Boone Plaza, Hazard, KY 41701
• Pikeville Walmart: 254 Cassady Blvd, Pikeville, KY 41501
Sarah Nusbaum, Corporate Communications Manager for Kentucky Power, reflected on the company’s commitment to community service: “It’s rewarding to work for a company that prioritizes giving back. Helping people is one of the most important things we can do, and Kentucky Power is dedicated to supporting the communities we serve.”
Food insecurity is a pressing issue, and raising awareness is a crucial step in addressing it. Kentucky Power aims to shed light on the scope of food insecurity and encourages early participation to maximize impact. Nusbaum stressed, “Food insecurity is a national problem, but donations made through this event will stay within Eastern Kentucky. By participating, you’re directly helping your neighbors.”
So, join Kentucky Power on Sept. 26 to help end hunger in Eastern Kentucky. Together, we can replenish local food supplies and support those who need it most. Let’s make this year’s Power Up the Pantry the most successful yet!
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