Thanksgiving is almost here, and for many families in Carter County, it isn’t just a meal — it’s a moment to slow down, gather together, and feel a little extra love from the community around us. And this year, Gregoryville Christian Church is once again stepping up to make sure everyone has a place at the table.
On Thursday, November 27th, they’re hosting a Free Community Thanksgiving Dinner, and they’re doing it in a way that truly meets people where they are. Whether you want to sit down and share a meal with familiar faces, grab a warm plate to go, or need a delivery right to your door, the church has made room for every circumstance and every schedule.
If you or someone you know needs delivery, all it takes is a quick call or text. Volunteers will be on standby at 606-474-8111 or 606-255-0833, making sure meals get to those who can’t make the trip themselves.
If you prefer pickup, you can swing by East Carter Middle School between 11 AM and 1 PM, where they’ll be offering a convenient drive-thru service — no need to get out of the car. And for anyone who’d rather eat in, share a table, and enjoy a bit of fellowship on the holiday, East Carter Middle School will also be open for dine-in during those same hours.
Year after year, this dinner has become more than just turkey and stuffing. It’s become a reminder of what community looks like when people show up for each other. A reminder that no one needs to spend Thanksgiving alone. And a reminder that small acts of kindness — a warm meal, a friendly smile, a volunteer with a helping hand — can mean the world.
So mark your calendar for November 27th, and help spread the word. Gregoryville Christian Church is once again making sure Thanksgiving is shared, celebrated, and felt across Carter County.
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As the holidays draw near, the kitchen becomes the heart of the home — a place where families gather, stories get shared, and simple meals turn into memories. And this December, a group of local organizations is coming together to help families make those moments a little easier, a little warmer, and a lot more affordable.
Operation Care Family Resource Center, Pathways, and the Carter County Extension Service — Family & Consumer Sciences — are teaming up to present a special event called “Share a Meal, Share Love.” It’s part of their F.E.A.S.T. initiative — Families Eating and Sharing Together — built around one simple idea: eating together strengthens bonds. It builds joy, creates understanding, and reminds us how important it is to slow down and truly connect.
On December 8th, from 5:30 to 7 PM, Olive Hill Elementary will open its cafeteria for an evening all about Holiday Meals on a Thrifty Budget. It’s a hands-on chance for families to learn how to stretch their dollars during the busiest season of the year without sacrificing flavor, fun, or togetherness. And best of all — a free meal is provided for every family who attends.
Space is limited to 25 Olive Hill Elementary families, and registration is required by December 5th. You can sign up easily by scanning the QR code on the flyer, or reach out directly if you have questions. The event will be held at 825 Tom T. Hall Boulevard in Olive Hill, and you can contact the school at 606-474-6696, extension 23040 for more details.
And here’s a bonus: free crockpots will be available while supplies last, along with recipes and dinner ideas families can take home and try for themselves. It’s a small gift that can make a big difference long after the event is over.
This holiday season, it’s not just about what’s on the table — it’s about the people sitting around it. And “Share a Meal, Share Love” is an invitation for families to come together, learn something new, and enjoy a night of food, fellowship, and practical holiday cheer.
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Today marks the final opportunity this week for residents in Western Carter County to take advantage of the county-wide clean-up campaign, as dumpsters will be available at the Carter County Maintenance Garage along US 60 until 2:30 p.m. The Solid Waste Department reminds all participants that dumpster access has now returned to its regular three-day weekly schedule and urges the public to follow the updated disposal guidelines.
A number of items will not be accepted, including refrigerators, deep freezers, televisions, household garbage, paint, tires, and batteries. In addition, all items must be either bagged or boxed — loose trash will not be collected.
The Carter County Clean-Up campaign operates on a rotating schedule, providing disposal opportunities for both the eastern and western ends of the county. After this week’s collection, dumpsters are scheduled to return to the Grayson maintenance garage but due to the upcoming Thanksgiving holiday they will be open only one Wednesday, November 26th that week to ensure the crew can enjoy the holiday with their family and friends.
This valuable community service is made possible by the Carter County Solid Waste Department, who continue to support these efforts to keep our neighborhoods clean, safe, and beautiful.
Let’s all do our part to keep Carter County looking its best.
