Hunger & Homelessness Awareness Week Event Supports WestCare Perry Cline Emergency Shelter
PIKEVILLE, KY — November 14, 2025 — Local organizations and community members will come together on Tuesday, November 19th for the Feed the Need for Change Walk, an event designed to raise awareness of hunger and homelessness in Eastern Kentucky while collecting non-perishable food donations for the WestCare Perry Cline Emergency Shelter.
The walk is part of Hunger & Homelessness Awareness Week, a national initiative aimed at shining a light on the challenges faced by individuals and families experiencing food insecurity and housing instability. This year’s event encourages the community to show support through both participation and contribution.
Participants will gather at the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet District 12 offices, where the walk will begin at 10 AM. The route will continue down Bypass Road, pass by the WestCare Perry Cline Emergency Shelter, and conclude at the double kwik location in downtown Pikeville.
“Events like this help remind us that food insecurity and homelessness are not distant issues—they affect our neighbors, our coworkers, and families right here at home,” said Treatment Specialist and event organizer, Rick Branham. “By coming together, we can raise awareness, reduce stigma, and support the organizations working on the front lines.”
The WestCare Perry Cline Emergency Shelter will be accepting non-perishable food items throughout the event. Community members who cannot participate in the walk are still encouraged to drop off donations at the shelter on the day of the event.
Items needed include canned goods, pasta, rice, peanut butter, boxed meals, shelf-stable snacks, and other non-perishable staples.
The Feed the Need for Change Walk is open to all ages, and no registration is required. Participants are encouraged to dress comfortably and bring food donations if able.
Media Contact:
Merisa Ferrell
Director of Programs & Media
Southeast Kentucky Chamber of Commerce
merisa@sekchamber.com
(606) 432-5504
