APPALACHIA (September 23, 2025) – Christian Appalachian Project (CAP) collected 14,184 pounds of food during its 14th annual Hunger Walk, held this last week at four locations across Eastern and Southeastern Kentucky. The food will be distributed through CAP’s pantry network serving Rockcastle, McCreary, Jackson and Magoffin counties.

"Hunger and poverty rob Appalachians of their future,” said Bob Hutchison, chair of CAP’s Board of Directors. “It’s hard to finish school, stay employed or make a better life for your children when every day is filled with worry about where the next meal will come from. CAP’s pantry network and Operation Sharing provide fresh produce, ready-to-eat meals and dairy products to fight hunger and feed hope.”

This year’s Hunger Walks brought hundreds of walkers together in communities large and small. The events were sponsored by Texas Roadhouse and Hunt Brothers Pizza, and supported by corporate partners such as Traditional Bank, which collected food at 11 locations to help CAP prepare for colder months and the holiday season.

CAP’s Eagle Food Pantry staff serve roughly 375 families per month in McCreary County and hosted a community event in Whitley City. Johnson County held its inaugural Hunger Walk at Johnson Central High School with plans to grow the event next year. In Fayette County, students from both Lexington Christian Academy campuses participated in the Hunger Walk for the fifth consecutive year; organizers estimate 3,225 walkers took part in these community events.

“In many places, families struggle to access affordable, nutritious food, especially children and older adults who may lack transportation or other supports,” said Jessie Isaacs, a student speaker at the Rockcastle County event. “But today we showed we can do something about it. Together, we can make a difference and help end hunger in our community.”

Donations and food collection continue through the end of September. To learn more or to make a gift, visit christianapp.org/hungerwalk.