Local churches serve officers for Law Enforcement Appreciation Day

What better way to show a group of people that you love and appreciate them than filling their bellies with a delicious meal?

That was the idea behind a special luncheon on Monday, Jan. 9, at the Corbin Center. The event was in honor of National Law Enforcement Appreciation Day, and was a result of the combined efforts of six Corbin area Christian Churches – Locust Grove, 17th Street, Steele’s Chapel, East Corbin, West Corbin and Woodbine.

“We’re feeding the Corbin City Police, the Corbin Fire Department, members of the Whitley County Sheriff’s Department, and any state police assigned to our area,” said Eddie Hammond of West Corbin Christian Church.

“More than anything, this is just to say ‘thank you,’ and let them know that we appreciate what they do.”

Mike Hopkins, minister at 17th Street Christian Church, said, “We love Jesus, and we share that by loving others. We want to lead by example, and show that the people who serve us have earned our love and respect. We are just trying to give some of that back.”

Officers came by the Corbin Center between 12:30-3:30 on Monday to pick up their meals. Some had to pick up a to-go box, but many stayed to eat and fellowship with others in attendance.

Among those who were on hand to get served was Corbin Police Chief Rusty Hedrick, who said, “It is definitely a great feeling to be invited here today. We are very fortunate to live in an area where we have great support for local law enforcement.”

Hopkins said that this is just one idea out of several that local church leaders have come together to discuss recently, and the goal is to continue organizing events that will, in his words, “show love to those who maybe don’t always feel loved.”

The churches that presented Monday’s Law Enforcement Appreciation Day luncheon partnered with David’s Steakhouse, who provided the food that was served to officers.

Pepsi Cola Bottling Co. of Corbin also served as a partner, providing drinks.

For more information on any of the churches previously mentioned, search for them online and on social media.

More information about the Corbin Center event facility can be found at www.thecorbincenter.com.

David’s Steakhouse and Buffet can be reached at (606) 528-0063.