Braxton-Bragg: Helping Feed the Needy
KNOXVILLE, Tenn. — Several Braxton-Bragg employees recently volunteered at Knox Area Rescue Ministries (KARM), preparing and serving meals.
Volunteers at KARM
KARM serves men, women and children through a variety of progressive ministry programs designed to break the cycle of homelessness. Serving nearly 1,000 meals each and every day of the year, KARM feeds both the homeless and people in crisis who must choose between paying bills or buying food.
“I’ve been preparing and serving food for this hot lunch program for a number of years,” Hood said. “When I get to interact with the men and women- and children- who come through the KARM lunch line, it is humbling how appreciative they are. It makes a big impact in their lives.”
KARM also provides emergency shelter to more than 300 men, women and children each night who have nowhere else to turn—offering a safe place from the elements, rest, and loving staff and volunteers who listen to them, and help and pray with and for them.
“A warm meal is often the first act of compassion that allows KARM staff and volunteers to engage with our guests and begin developing relationships that help reignite hope,” said Karen Bowdle, KARM director of communications and public relations.
In addition to feeding the homeless and providing shelter, KARM’s Abundant Life Kitchen program helps train guests for employment in the food-service industry, and offers catering services to Knox area business, churches, and community groups. Also, KARM’s Clean Start program trains guests for the commercial janitorial industry.
“Our staff was so honored to volunteer at KARM and be part of the great work that organization does to give homeless people a hot meal and, more than that, to give them a path to restoration,” Stimac said. “This community outreach is a part of our company’s 25th anniversary celebration, and we’re having a great time helping others and getting to know each other on an even more personal level.”
