Ark Valley Kitchen of Kindness - First Serving Interview

Description: Volunteers for the Ark Valley Kitchen of Kindness at Santa Fe Plaza in La Junta during their first free food distribution.


Published: 04/02/2022
Byline: Hart

Ark Valley Kitchen of Kindness - First Serving Interview

By Adrian Hart

The Ark Valley Kitchen of Kindness held its first free food distribution in La Junta on Friday evening, and they began to grow fellowship with the Southeast Colorado Community through providing meals to those in need.

According to volunteer Chris Coffield, it took about four months to plan the event. Mark Fisher also commented on the amount of time and effort it took for the volunteer ran organization to pull off a free meal distribution. There were about a dozen volunteers at their event in the Santa Fe Plaza just off of US Hwy 50. One gentleman who enjoyed a meal was riding his bicycle cross country and staying at a local church for the evening.

The founding volunteers of the Ark Valley Kitchen of Kindness initially wanted to start a homeless shelter. For now they will be organizing free meal distributions and growing their offerings to the community as they grow their organization and community fellowship. Around fifteen people enjoyed chicken and noodles, rolls, drinks, and desserts. According to Fisher, the big win for everyone involved was coming together for fellowship and a hot meal. He said he expects the response to grow and the community bonds to strengthen as the group continues it's efforts to provide for the people of Southeast Colorado.

Numerous local businesses, churches and organizations came together to support their effort, according to Terry Smalling. The list includes: The Church of Christ, Mennonite Church, First Christian Church, Calvary Church, Lutheran Church in Swink, Associated Charities, Small Town Project in Rocky Ford, American Legion, La Junta City Council, Safeway, The Otero County Health Department, and The Peer House with Southeast Health Group.

A handwashing station was provided for everyone who enjoyed a meal.

If you would like to volunteer to help the Ark Valley Kitchen of Kindness contact Terry or Chris.

Terry (719) 468-7157. Or Chris (970) 317-5361.

Learn More about The Ark Valley Kitchen of Kindness and Their First Free Food Distribution in this Podcast:

Podcast Interview:

Related Content:

About The Valley: Ark Valley Kitchen of Kindness at Santa Fe Plaza

About The Valley: LJ City Council - Kitchen of Kindness

Ark Valley Kitchen of Kindness is on Facebook. 



Follow SECO News on Facebook.
Subscribe to the SECO News YouTube Channel.


Photo Gallery by Adrian Hart



Announcements Sponsor