Working Together

BY BRIANNA STEPHENS

When there is a need in our region, Christian Appalachian Project’s (CAP) programs work closely together to serve children, their families, and seniors in Appalachia.

In the late fall following historic summer flooding that impacted thousands of homes in Eastern Kentucky, CAP’s Disaster Relief program received a call about a large donation of furniture from the University of Louisville. The university was renovating a 192-unit student apartment complex and wanted to give the furniture and appliances that were being removed to people rebuilding from the flood in Eastern Kentucky.

“When we got word about this donation, we were excited and knew this would make a big difference for the people impacted by the flood,” said Robyn Renner, director of CAP’s Disaster Relief program. “We needed a way to get it to Eastern Kentucky, so we reached out to Operation Sharing. They were happy to help.”

For several weeks, Operation Sharing tractor-trailer drivers drove to Louisville to pick up trailers full of couches, chairs, cabinets, tables, stoves, washers, dryers, and more. The truckloads of items were distributed to the program’s partners across Eastern Kentucky to help families impacted by the floods.

“Our partners have helped make the delivery of this furniture possible to families across multiple Eastern Kentucky counties,” said Ben Ridner, manager of the Corbin Operation Sharing program. “Our partners are critical in making sure essential items get in the hands of people who need it.”

In addition to the furniture from the University of Louisville, CAP has received multiple loads of assorted kitchen items from IKEA, including kitchen accessories, cabinets, and countertops.