Ruta Smith

AMOR Healing Kitchen is continuing to put hot meals on the tables of customers who cannot go to the grocery store while they recover from surgeries or medical treatments.

“I’m so thankful we have an outlet to actually make a difference right now when the scale of what’s happening around us can feel so overwhelming,” says founder Maria Kelly.

She is working with culinary director Justin Booher to keep up the meal service after the pandemic forced them to send teen volunteers home.

Guiding these volunteers is not only an essential part of the AMOR Healing Kitchen mission, but it’s also a way for them to efficiently deliver wholesome, nutritious meals. “We serve meals to individuals, their caregivers, and family members if they are present,” Kelly says. “Right now, Justin and I are doing the work that 25 people normally do.”

Despite the extra hours, Kelly wouldn’t have it any other way. “I can’t imagine being in another position. We’re helping these people stay out of the store and stay strong emotionally. Being an active participant in our community feels great.” —Parker Milner


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