Churches and Community Join Forces to Launch McCook Meal Kits

Anna LaBay
Nov 10
2 min read

McCOOK Neb. — A new local effort is coming together this week to help make sure no family in McCook goes without a good meal.

McCook Meal Kits, a collaboration between local churches, businesses, and volunteers, will host its first free Meal Kit Giveaway on Wednesday, November 12, from 2–6 p.m. at the McCook Community Building on the Red Willow County Fairgrounds.

Each kit will include shelf-stable ingredients and seasonings to prepare full family meals such as Chili Mac, Cowboy Stew, Chicken Alfredo, Tex-Mex Taco Mix, and more.

The idea came together quickly. Just two weeks ago, Sarah Powers, Administrator at McCook Evangelical Free Church, and Pastor Tyler McCarty of McCook Christian Church began talking about ways local congregations could partner to meet community needs.

“We’ve talked for a while about doing cooperative projects,” Powers said. “When the idea of meal kits came up, it was an obvious fit—and the response from the community has been amazing.”

Four churches—the Evangelical Free, Methodist, Catholic, and McCook Christian—joined forces to organize the project, with Walmart stepping in to help source and donate supplies. Volunteers from several other local churches are also assisting with assembly.

In total, the group plans to provide 1,000 family meal kits, each costing roughly $6 to produce. The effort shows what can happen when local organizations share resources and a common purpose.

“Even if federal benefits stabilize, there are still families in our community who could use a few extra meals,” McCarty said. “Nobody in southwest Nebraska should go hungry.”

The Red Willow County Fairgrounds donated use of the Community Building for the week, giving volunteers space to assemble the kits before distribution day. Each family will be invited to choose two different meal options through a walk-in or drive-through format. Volunteers are also welcome to pick up meals for friends or neighbors who may not be able to attend.

“We just want to make sure people have food and dignity,” Powers said. “If you know someone who needs help, come pick one up for them. That’s what community is for.”

Volunteer Michael Carpenter said the project was an easy yes for him.

“Knowing what it’s like to struggle and having the opportunity to serve the community I love—I’m in.”

First distribution set for Wednesday, November 12, 2–6 p.m. at the McCook Community Building

To volunteer, donate, or learn more, visit www.mccookmealkits.org.