Two years ago, members of the local knitting group, Knoxville Needle Exchange, volunteered their time, money and nimble fingers to the Fantasy of Trees, East Tennessee Children’s Hospital benefit. Their handmade ornaments were auctioned off and the proceeds were then used to buy medical equipment.
This year, they made a bigger tree.
We found them, tucked away in a corner of Knoxville’s convention center putting the finishing touches on their display.
After a little investigation, we discovered that the group has been crafting non-stop since June to get ready for this event. They told us that it’s, “simply an excuse to get together,” but to U.S. Cellular, it’s more than that. Before we left, we thanked them for taking the time to talk to us and most importantly, for taking the time to make all of these beautiful things.
The team met Kaleb at a local music store. He was sitting on a stool, strumming a soft tune. When we asked him if that was his guitar, he laughed and said, “No.”
We wanted to change that. Hopefully, the donation will let Kaleb focus on the music that’s been inspiring his community.
“I’ll be honest. It’s the kids and the seniors that inspire me. What keeps me up at night, of course, is keeping the money coming in to keep this place open. We’re a non- profit. That’s what drives you, is finding a way to make sure that we can provide for these kids and their families.”
- Mr. Tim
Our team dropped off supplies and some much needed funds. Hopefully, he’s up a little less tonight.
“I’m five minutes older than she is.”
Twin sisters Helen Ashe and Ellen Turner have been feeding those in need since 1986. But the idea for The Love Kitchen started earlier, during their nursing days at the University of Tennessee Hospital.
As Helen tells it, a lot of the patients weren’t getting the nutrition they needed at home. She decided to do something about it, and a few years later The Love Kitchen opened.
The twins say the program wouldn’t have been possible without the influence of their wonderful parents. They taught them to never take the last piece of bread from the table, in case somebody came by in need of it.
You can see the evidence of their parents’ love everywhere. Not only in the charity’s name, but also in the type of people they attract. Because of their president’s caring attention and the dedication of generous volunteers, their service continues to grow.
This November, The Love Kitchen delivered over 2,930 meals while also serving 416 people. We were happy to hand them a check that will go toward serving many more.
“Kids this young can help.”
We couldn’t agree more.
