Carter County clean up dumpster will be on the WEST END this week and open Wednesday through Friday (9/9 - 9/11) 8:00 AM - 2:30 PM

Thanksgiving is 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. Once again this year, Gregoryville Christian Church is stepping up to make sure everyone has a place at the table.

Today 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.

Gregoryville Christian Church is once again making sure Thanksgiving is shared, celebrated, and felt across Carter County.

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The magic of Christmas is on its way back to Olive Hill — and this year’s Christmas at the Depot promises to shine brighter than ever.

Set for Monday, December 15th from 6 to 8 p.m., this free community event turns the Depot area into a winter wonderland, where hundreds of local kids line up each year to meet Santa and take home a special gift — last year, more than 500 children received presents, and the goal is to spread even more smiles this season.

Hosted by Olive Hill Trail Town and Cash Express, the event brings neighbors, churches, and volunteers together to make sure every child feels the warmth of the holidays. Donations of toys, coats, scarves, blankets, treats, and hot cocoa are all welcome — and anyone wishing to give can drop toys off directly at Cash Express on Railroad Street.

Organizers are also inviting groups and individuals to set up booths, hand out goodies, or help decorate — because every little bit of cheer helps make this night unforgettable.

If you’d like to volunteer or donate, reach out after November 4th to join the effort. Bring your Christmas spirit, your generosity, and your love for community — because at the Depot, the true magic of the season is found in giving.

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Several local organizations and churches are stepping up to open their doors and provide information about local food pantries and where Carter Countians can turn if they need a little help putting food on the table, so that everyone in our community knows no one has to face that struggle alone.

If you or someone you know could use a little help right now, there are people ready to listen, and ready to help. You can reach the Bethany House Christian Center by calling 606-286-5045 or the Community Food Pantry at 606-474-5464.

More resources are available by contacting the James Chapel Holiness Church at 606-776-4697. You can also call Mills Branch Apostolic Church at 606-207-1434, or reach the Northeast Kentucky Community Action Agency toll-free at 800-817-4443.

And finally for any emergency needs, God’s Pantry has an Emergency Food Box Program, available at 859-288-5319.

Each of these groups represents what makes this community special — neighbors helping neighbors, churches opening their doors, and local folks doing what they can to make sure no one in Carter County goes hungry.