Immediately following a natural disaster, volunteers are abundant to address the immediate needs of those affected. But as the months, even years, go by and other disasters require immediate assistance in other areas, those still recovering from the devastation are often left to their own resources as their recovery efforts continue.  Many survivors of the 2022 floods in Eastern Kentucky are still working to rebuild their lives, their homes, and their communities.   

The Knott County Area Technology Center has served students in the area for many years, providing educational opportunities in trades such as auto mechanics, building maintenance, carpentry, office systems, healthcare, and other much needed services that support the infrastructure of a community.  Ironically, the interior of the school that is charged with building the community’s workforce of tomorrow was destroyed by flood waters in July 2022.  The Center is still undergoing reconstruction and students are temporarily housed in regular classrooms at Knott County High School.   

Prior to the flooding, students of the Technology Center had been treated to a holiday meal each year that was funded by donations from local resources.  This celebration of the season of giving was a “thank you” from local businesses in appreciation for the students’ hard work and dedication to their studies.  It also provides the students with an opportunity to meet representatives of local businesses, ask questions about their industry of interest, and get their foot in the door for potential future employment.

Since the flooding and the loss of the school facilities, all fundraising efforts have been directed to the rebuilding process, meaning the much-anticipated holiday meal for the students did not seem feasible, thereby breaking the direct connection between the students and area businesses.

To fulfill this need, the Laurel County Extension Office collaborated with the Knott County Extension Office and E. C. Porter IGA of London to provide a free meal and a location for the students to enjoy the annual celebration.  The Knott County Extension Office provided a meeting room that was brightly decorated for the holiday season.  E. C. Porter IGA donated six turkeys, which the Laurel County Extension Office prepared, sliced, and delivered.  The students were treated to a healthy and nutritious hot meal, providing an opportunity for celebration and encouraging them to look to the bright futures ahead of them. 

A total of 317 students, 10 faculty members, and representatives from several local businesses attended the dinner.   

When asked if they enjoyed the dinner, one student said, “This is a wonderful surprise, and so nice.  The food is delicious.”  

The teachers and administrators were thrilled to have the opportunity to carry on the tradition.  One said, “We truly appreciate the Extension Offices and IGA giving us the opportunity to continue this tradition for our students.  They’ve been through so much loss and uncertainty in the last two and a half years.  It’s so rewarding to see them having such a great time.”  

Angel Mobley, principal at the ATC, said, “I was so surprised and pleased when the extension services came to our rescue to continue our holiday tradition. The offices will never know how grateful I am and how much our students and staff appreciated their kindness.”