Angela Leavell will have worked at the Open Hand Kitchen for 12 years this July. She’s seen a lot of changes in that time. One of the biggest changes occurred during Covid.
“Much of the staff got Covid, and we had to shut down for 14 days. It was the first time in all the time I’ve worked here that we had to shut down,” Angela remembers.
Currently, the Open Hand Kitchen serves food to a slightly reduced number of people, 7,000 a month. “Some folks haven’t come back to the Kitchen yet,” Angela explains. “People are more cautious because of Covid.”
However, with new protocols in place like masks worn while not eating and to-go containers, those who do come here for a meal can be assured that as much as possible is being done to mitigate any chance of contagion.
The Open Hand Kitchen relies on donations of food to operate. “We get a significant amount from Dare to Care, but other donors help us provide a variety of food to our guests,” Angela says. “That allows us to have not only nutritious meals, but different foods.”
Food donations come from farmers, local grocery stores, and individuals. “Whether it is vegetables, fruit, or meat, we can find a use for it,” Angela says.
In addition to food donations, Angela is always grateful for the volunteers who support the Kitchen during lunch and dinner.
“It’s nice to see old faces again now that Covid levels are lower, and I am always thankful for the companies and church groups who take the time to help us,” Angela smiles.
The kitchen is open for lunch at noon and for dinner at 5 p.m. The staff can accept food donations anytime between 9:30 a.m. and 5 p.m.
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