This past year the Hickory Soup Kitchen (HSK) served over 80,000 plates of food through our daily lunch service to the hungry in our area. Along with our dining service at HSK we provide food throughout the year to Safe Harbor New Day Center, Salvation Army Boys and Girls Club, The Den mentoring program at First Presbyterian, and many other agencies in our County that work with folks at or below the poverty line.
Our Free Grocery program is serving an average of 450 families, and 135 homeless individuals monthly. This program includes their choice of dry goods, meats, produce, dairy, and bakery. In 2023 we distributed 7,689 bags of groceries to those we serve.
HSK provides a hygiene program for all who visit our facility. We have 6 private showers on site that accommodate an average of 14 people a day. We have everything from shampoo to dental floss available free of charge to anyone in need. This program is vital for our homeless guests and has a huge impact on their health and well-being.
In 2018 we started the HOPE project, which helps individuals find employment and provide reliable transportation when needed. Since 2019, the Center has helped our guests find employment and obtain transportation to and from work. Through this program over 501 individuals have been given a chance at a better life. Six of our participants celebrated 5 year anniversaries in September. We are very proud of all that these folks have accomplished.
Hickory Soup Kitchen is a faithful partner of The Bolick Foundation.