About Us
Brief History
Aware of a growing homeless “camp” in Shelbyville, under the leadership of Reverend Lanita Monroe, the Bedford County Ministerial Association made a pledge for a six-week trial run of a soup kitchen during Lent of 2016. The response would then be evaluated to determine whether to proceed.
Starting with only 12 guests on the first evening—a rainy, cold night in February, the number quickly grew to 40 folks arriving each Tuesday evening during those first weeks. The Ministerial Association determined to continue the ministry. Shelbyville First United Methodist Church was located closest to the homeless camp along Duck River, making it the logical “home” for the soup kitchen.
From early on, it was apparent that the regular guests developed a sense of community within the meal site. They saw the Tuesday meal as their congregation, their family, their home. For many it was the only hot meal they got for the week. It may also have been the only time they could wash their hands and use a restroom in an indoor facility. For others it was a chance to save a little bit on their food bill.
As soup kitchen developed, grew and more needs were recognized within the community, items such as socks, toiletry bags and to-go sack meals for the unsheltered were added. Christmas and Thanksgiving were times when guests were treated to traditional-style meals. This further progressed to include a large Christmas gift ministry provided by the community, in which “shopping for free” for children is provided for soup kitchen guests.
Who runs the organization?
By June 2017, a Board of Governors was formed and charitable status established for soup kitchen, officially naming it the Shelbyville Community Soup Kitchen. Volunteers from area churches, Wal-Mart, Cooper Steel, and Tyson signed-up to cook and serve each Tuesday evening. Doors opened to guests at 4:00 p.m. and hearty meals were served to all who came. By December 2018, an average of nearly 130 people was being served each Tuesday.
Who pays the bills?
The bulk of operating funds for soup kitchen comes from donations by individuals, local congregations and businesses. Additionally, some grant funds help to financially sustain the ministry. As stewards of these funds, the Board of Governors seeks to provide Christian oversight for all activities related to soup kitchen. The best food possible, through the most cost-effective means, along with overseeing improvements and upkeep for the building and its contents is within the scope of the board.