The Saturday Night Community Dinner in Covington, Kentucky, is facing an uncertain future after nearly 25 years of providing vital support to residents in need. Due to the decision by First Christian Church to sell its building, the dinner, a staple for the community, must relocate by the end of this year. Organizers are appealing for assistance in finding a new, permanent home to continue their essential service.
Urgent Call for a New Location
Since its inception, the Saturday Night Community Dinner has served as a dependable source of hot meals and companionship for those experiencing hardship. Every Saturday at 17:30, the program welcomes guests to enjoy a nutritious meal and a sense of belonging. The need for a new location is pressing, as the current venue will no longer be available after December 31, 2023.
Organizers are actively seeking a space that is ideally situated along or near the Madison Avenue corridor and easily accessible by public transport. A certified kitchen is essential, along with seating for 60 to 80 people. Additional features such as ADA accessibility and climate control would greatly enhance the dining experience for attendees.
A Legacy of Compassion
Over the years, the dinner has grown from a modest initiative into a crucial lifeline for Covington’s vulnerable populations. Before the COVID-19 pandemic, the event regularly served 100 to 120 diners each week. Currently, the numbers have decreased to around 50 to 60 guests, many of whom face challenges such as homelessness, mental health issues, or food insecurity.
Volunteers emphasize that the dinner is not just about providing food. It offers a warm environment where individuals can relax and feel valued. “Our guests are seen as God’s beloved—fully human and worthy of care, respect, and compassion,” the organizers stated. They reaffirm their commitment, declaring, “This ministry won’t stop until the day every person in Covington has enough. Until then, we keep showing up.”
Consistency is crucial for the attendees, many of whom rely on the dinner as a stable source of nourishment and community support. The partner churches, which include Bulletsville Christian Church, Trinity Episcopal Church, Crescent Springs Presbyterian, and others, are united in their efforts to locate a suitable venue. Participation is open to all, and organizations do not need to be churches to contribute.
How to Get Involved
Community members who may have leads on potential locations or wish to join the volunteer effort are encouraged to reach out. Those interested can contact Sheri at First Christian Church via phone at 859-431-3904 or email at [email protected].
The Saturday Night Community Dinner represents more than just a weekly meal; it embodies a spirit of generosity and support that has touched the lives of many. As the search for a new home continues, the organizers remain hopeful that the community will rally to keep this invaluable program alive.
