Marcella Perkins says she decided to start Marcella's Kitchen at 242 Griggstown Road after working to feed the hungry in McCracken County. She began meeting with local volunteers in Marshall County, and before long things were up and running.
"We got started because I worked in Paducah's Community Kitchen for a couple of years. During that time I guess I wondered if Marshall County needed one, and so we had our first meeting at the Woodmen of the World building in January of 2011. We've been up and running for six years now." Perkins said.
Over the years, Perkins and other volunteers have served well over 100,000 meals to those in need. One thing she says that sets her kitchen apart from some other food pantries is their no questions asked policy for anyone who needs a meal. Anyone can come in and sit down to eat, without fear of any judgement or rejection.
"We've served about a hundred thousand meals now in six years to our friends in Marshall County," Perkins said. "We have a free meal five days a week, and we don't ask any questions. You don't have to qualify to be here."
Perkins says they serve about 70-80 people on an average day, but Tuesday's anniversary celebration brought in about 110 people. As a true non-profit, she says her kitchen relies solely on donations from the community to supply the resources to feed so many people. "Our largest fundraiser is the Empty Bowls Project. We've had it in the spring, but we're moving it to the fall this year. It will be at Marshall County High School on September 9th. We've had Woodmen of the World have a food drive for us, 4H Club and different things like that. Some of the churches have us in their budgets, and then we have individuals that donate once a month." She said.
Perkins added that she is proud to serve Marshall County. "It's been quite a blessing, and the county has been very supportive of us." She said.
Marcella's Kitchen is open Monday through Friday, from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. To learn more or to donate call Grace Forte at 270-205-0223, or email galw1984@gmail.com.
On the Net:
Marcella's Kitchen Facebook Page
