Kentucky State Police Post 13 in Hazard delivered free Thanksgiving meals to several hundred families across Eastern Kentucky as part of an eight-year tradition.
PERRY CO., Ky. (WYMT) – Kentucky State Police Post 13 in Hazard continued its annual tradition of providing free Thanksgiving meals to several hundred families across Eastern Kentucky.
KSP Post 13 partnered with Whitesburg Food City and CANE’s Kitchen to supply pre-packed turkey dinners to schools in Knott, Perry, Breathitt and Leslie counties.
After troopers deliver the meals to the schools, administrators decide which families will receive the Thanksgiving dinners.
“It’s just a way to help give back to the community here in these times to help some of the kids and families that’s less fortunate than others,” said Trooper Michael Burton of Kentucky State Police Post 13.
Michelle Ritchie, principal at Perry County Central High School, said food insecurity affects more students than many people realize. With the holidays approaching, she said the burden can become even heavier.
“A lot of people struggle during this time of the year. So, that collaboration is something that could really save a kid,” Ritchie said.
Ritchie added that families continue to face uncertainty about access to resources, even though some programs have been restored.
“There was the fear there for a little bit that they weren’t going to get the resources that they needed and, you know, of course some of that’s been restored, but there’s still that fear,” Ritchie said. “When we’re going to be off school, it’s really important to see them home with supplies for themselves and their families.”
Trooper Burton said the tradition highlights community cooperation and would not be possible without donations.
“It’s just good to see the community pull together for situations like this to help other families,” Burton said.
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