By Brianna Stephens 

People across the country are grappling with the climbing cost of goods and services, but in Appalachia, the strain is even more palpable. For families already grappling with poverty and struggling to meet basic needs, these rising costs are not just a financial burden, but they exacerbate the daily challenges and stressors they face. 

Christian Appalachian Project (CAP) offers a variety of human services programs that meet the diverse needs of our region. These programs are interconnected and strive to provide a holistic approach, ensuring participants receive comprehensive support tailored to their unique challenges.  

CAP’s Eagle Food Pantry serves children, their families, and seniors in McCreary County with nutritious fresh fruits and vegetables, meats, dairy, and shelf-stable foods. Pantry participants are served through a shopping experience at the pantry where they have the opportunity to choose foods they will take home. 

“Giving our participants the choice in what they pick upholds their dignity,” said McCreary County native Justin Patrick, a pantry clerk and delivery driver. “I enjoy helping the public, but it means a lot to me to help this community because I’ve grown up here and I’ve seen the needs that exist. This pantry makes an impact on so many people.” 

In addition to food items, Eagle Food Pantry partners with CAP’s Operation Sharing program to stock essential hygiene items, like soap, deodorant, toothbrushes, and laundry detergent. Operation Sharing receives donated goods from caring partners and corporations at warehouses located in Corbin and Paintsville, Kentucky. The goods are sorted and delivered to people in Appalachia through CAP programs and 1,500 regional partnerships.  

“We saw the need to have these items at the pantry, and we know some of our participants may have a limited income and are trying to save the money they have for essential expenses,” said Kathy Perry, coordinator of Eagle Food Pantry. “They don’t have to worry about choosing between spending their money on the medications they need, food, or utility bills. This helps them tremendously and they are so thankful for that.” 

A popular item from the hygiene shelf is a child’s toothbrush and toothpaste. Each child that visits the pantry is excited to pick their own toothbrush to take home. Participants, especially those with larger families, are also very appreciative of items like laundry detergent and fabric softener to use for their families. 

“These are everyday items that can be taken for granted. They have become very costly,” Perry said. “We are the hands and feet of Jesus. Anytime we can help someone, we feel like we’ve helped a neighbor in need, and we have uplifted the Lord.”