Kountry Kitchen’s annual Christmas outreach to provide thousands of meals

INDIANAPOLIS (WISH) — Kountry Kitchen, a beloved Indianapolis restaurant, will serve more than 3,000 free meals to the community on Christmas Day as part of its annual outreach program. This initiative, started in 2008, continues to grow with the support of local partners.

Cynthia Wright-Wilson, the owner of Kountry Kitchen, emphasized the restaurant’s commitment to giving back, stating, “We just wanted to give back to the community because the community has been so good to Country Kitchen through thick and thin.” The outreach program began with a goal to feed 500 people and has dramatically increased, providing 2,300 meals in 2011 and more than 3,000 in 2016 in partnership with organizations like Toys for Tots.

The Christmas outreach began in 2008 when Cynthia and her husband, Isaac, aimed to feed 500 people. With the help of friends and volunteers, they doubled their goal, serving 1,200 meals on that first occasion. Volunteers worked tirelessly, with a remarkable 21-hour preparation period leading up to the event.

In 2016, Toys for Tots collaborated with Kountry Kitchen, enhancing the outreach by not only providing meals but also distributing toys to children in need. This partnership allowed the restaurant to continue expanding its efforts each year, reinforcing the importance of community assistance during the holiday season.

Cynthia describes the mission as family-oriented and inclusive, stating, “It’s about family.” The outreach not only serves meals but also provides essential winter items like hats and gloves for families in need.

During this year’s event, Kountry Kitchen will serve traditional holiday dishes including fried chicken, mashed potatoes, green beans and desserts sponsored by local businesses. Patrick, an active volunteer and family member, expressed the excitement of seeing families receiving toys and meals: “Seeing those kids walk away with the toys was so exciting, you know.”

To participate in this community outreach, individuals can volunteer their time, request a meal, or make financial donations. Cynthia encourages community involvement, mentioning, “In order to volunteer, receive food, or donate, you can go to countrykitchenindy.com, go to the events tab and you’ll see three different forms.”

This year, Kountry Kitchen expects to serve more than 3,000 meals on Christmas Day, continuing its tradition of community service. Volunteers are welcome to join the effort and donations are being accepted to support the outreach.

For more information and details, visit Kountry Kitchen website.