The Saturday Night Community Dinner in Covington, KY, is facing an urgent need for a new location after nearly 25 years of providing vital services to the community. Originally established at First Christian Church, the dinner has served as a reliable source of warm meals and companionship for those in need. However, with the church’s decision to sell its building, the future of this important initiative is now at risk.
Longstanding Community Support at Risk
For over two decades, the Saturday Night Community Dinner has welcomed guests every Saturday at 5:30 PM. Traditionally, this program has provided not only hot meals but also a safe environment where individuals can find dignity and support. The ministry began with a collaboration between First Christian Church and local congregations, evolving into a cornerstone for many residents facing challenges such as homelessness, food insecurity, and mental health issues.
Before the COVID-19 pandemic, the dinner regularly served around 100–120 diners each week. Currently, that number has decreased to approximately 50–60, highlighting the continued need for such services as many guests struggle with various hardships. Organizers emphasize that the program creates a welcoming space where individuals can feel valued and cared for: “Our guests are seen as God’s beloved—fully human and worthy of care, respect, and compassion,” they stated. “This ministry won’t stop until the day every person in Covington has enough. Until then, we keep showing up.”
Community Call to Action
In light of the impending closure of their current venue, the partner churches involved in this initiative are actively seeking a new, permanent location. The new site ideally needs to be situated along or near the Madison Avenue corridor and easily accessible by public transport to ensure guests can continue to find their way to meals and companionship each week.
A suitable space must include a certified kitchen and seating for 60–80 people, with preferences for ADA accessibility and climate control. Current partners in the effort include:
- Bulletsville Christian Church
- Trinity Episcopal Church
- Crescent Springs Presbyterian
- Lakeside Presbyterian
- Milford Christian Church
- Erlanger Christian Church
- Numerous families, neighbors, and volunteers
There is an open invitation for additional partners to join the effort, as participation is not limited to religious organizations. Community members who wish to support the dinner are encouraged to reach out.
How to Assist the Community Dinner
Individuals with information about potential venues or those interested in volunteering can contact Sheri at First Christian Church by calling 859-431-3904 or emailing [email protected]. The urgency of the situation calls for a collective effort to ensure the continuity of this essential service.
The Saturday Night Community Dinner has become more than just a meal; it is a lifeline for many in Covington. As the search for a new home continues, the local community is being urged to step forward and help keep this vital program alive.
