This winter, the Loaves and Fishes program in Stone County is again partnering with area churches to provide a free hot meal each night of the week, starting January 2 and continuing through March 31. The annual program offers budget relief as well as an opportunity for social interaction during months when it is harder to be out and active.
The Loaves and Fishes program has been up and running for 14 years, offering free hot meals for folks in the area, with at least eight churches or as many as nine churches in the area participating weekly on the night they have signed up to provide. Hundreds of caring volunteers help with planning, putting meals together, and serving the food. Each church furnishes food on their night, and the Loaves and Fishes program provides the paper plates/bowls, cups, forks/spoons/knives and to-go boxes.
Although the free meals can be a welcome budget boost for families affected by seasonal tourism slow-downs and reduced work hours, no income qualification is needed. Seniors, people living alone, or caregivers are just a few of those who may be encouraged by this opportunity to get together with others. Most of the churches offer a sit-down meal at the church and extra meals to be taken home as well. On some evenings the churches provide other assistance, such as coats and other clothing items at no cost.
For 2025, meals will be served from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. at the following locations in Kimberling City (K.C.) and Reeds Spring (R.S.):
Monday: St. Andrew’s Presbyterian Church, 30 James River Rd., K.C.
Tuesday: Our Lady of the Cove Catholic Church, 20 Kimberling Blvd., K.C.
Wednesday: Ignite Church, 19585 St. Hwy. 413, R.S.
Thursday: First Baptist Church, 161 Heaven’s Way, K.C.
Friday: Life Song United Methodist Church, 331 St. Hwy. 76, R.S.
Saturday: Church of Christ, 7 Northwoods Dr., K.C.
Sunday: Kimberling City United Methodist Church, K.C. Shopping Center
If Reeds Spring schools are cancelled due to weather conditions, no Loaves and Fishes meal will be served that day. For questions or additional information, call 785-564-0523 or email ahlvers@ksu.edu.