Empowering Communities: Kentucky Power and WYMT-TV Join Forces to Combat Hunger

In a heartwarming display of community spirit, Kentucky Power and WYMT-TV are once again collaborating to address the pressing issue of food insecurity in the region. Through their annual "Power Up the Pantry" initiative, these organizations are rallying local communities to donate non-perishable food items and monetary contributions, directly benefiting the God's Pantry Food Bank and Facing Hunger Food Bank.

Uniting to Nourish Neighbors in Need

Addressing the Alarming Rates of Food Insecurity

According to Facing Hunger Community Relations Officer Liz Watson, the Kentucky counties served by these food banks face an alarming 20% overall food insecurity rate, with an even higher 25% child food insecurity rate. This stark reality underscores the critical need for the "Power Up the Pantry" initiative, which aims to ensure that local food pantries and meal programs have the resources they need to support their communities.

A Successful Partnership Continues

Since the inaugural "Power Up the Pantry" event in 2019, Kentucky Power and WYMT-TV have made a significant impact, collecting over 26,000 pounds of food and more than $143,000 in donations. This year, the organizers are hopeful that the communities will once again come together to make the event a resounding success.

Empowering Communities to Support One Another

"We're proud to be a part of communities that support each other," said Amy Elliott, vice president of external affairs and customer service for Kentucky Power. "Addressing hunger is a commitment we've made to support the basic needs of the communities we serve. We're hopeful everyone will come out to support these food banks because, together, we know we can make a significant difference."

Convenient Donation Locations and Times

On Thursday, September 26th, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., community members are encouraged to bring non-expired, non-perishable foods (especially the "pop-top" kind that don't require a tool to open) to the red tents set up at the following locations:- Ashland – Broadway Square, 300 16th Street (11 a.m. to 2 p.m., Food Trucks & Live Music)- Ashland – Cannonsburg Walmart, 12504 US-60- Hazard – Walmart, 120 Daniel Boone Plaza- Pikeville – Walmart, 254 Cassidy BoulevardFor more information, interested individuals can visit the dedicated website at www.KentuckyPower.com/Pantry.