APPALACHIA — Christian Appalachian Project (CAP) has selected God’s Pantry Food Bank and Community Trust Bank as its 2024 Champions of Appalachia. The award recognizes individuals and organizations that have had a positive, long-term impact in the lives of people in the region.
“We are proud of the faithful partnerships we have throughout Appalachia, like that with God’s Pantry Food Bank and Community Trust Bank,” said Guy Adams, CAP president/CEO. “The work of our honorees aligns with our mission as well as our core values of faith, service, and compassion. Through Champions of Appalachia, we celebrate the work that is happening in our region to make a difference in the lives of children, their families, and seniors.”
Founded in 1955, God’s Pantry Food Bank partners with more than 500 food pantries and meal programs across Central and Eastern Kentucky, including Christian Appalachian Project’s pantry network. God’s Pantry provides emergency food assistance and access to food serving 50 counties in Kentucky. That is nearly 265,000 people that face food insecurity in Central and Eastern Kentucky. The nonprofit’s mission is reducing hunger by working together to feed Kentucky communities through the generosity of donors who provide food and funds. Each year, God’s Pantry Food Bank acquires enough food to make 40 million meals. Mike Halligan, president/CEO of God’s Pantry Food Bank, accepted the award on behalf of the organization.
“It is an incredible honor to be recognized as a Champion of Appalachia,” Halligan said. “This award isn’t just about the work we do, it’s about the people we serve. Every step forward is a testament to the strength and resilience of this region, and I’m humbled to play a part in that journey. Together, we are changing lives and creating a brighter future for Kentucky and Appalachia.”
Community Trust Bank provides financial services to communities in Kentucky, West Virginia and Tennessee. Founded as Pikeville National Bank in 1903, the bank changed their name to Community Trust Bank to reflect their dedication to the community, which can be seen through financial support and volunteer service in local efforts. The bank has been a generous supporter of CAP for 20 years, including as a lead sponsor for CAP’s 50th Anniversary in 2014. During the recent floods of 2022, Community Trust Bank partnered with CAP to send staff to assist with volunteer efforts as well as accept donations on behalf of CAP. Mark Gooch, president/CEO of Community Trust Bank, accepted the award on behalf of the bank.
“We appreciate the recognition and I’m thankful for our more than 950 employees across our company in Kentucky, Tennessee, and West Virginia that strive to take care of our communities and customers throughout the many areas we serve,” Gooch said. “We believe we have many of the guiding principles that are similar to those of Christian Appalachian Project. Fairness, respect and integrity are very important to us and we are very thankful to consider CAP a friend and partner as we all strive to make Appalachia a better place to do business and raise our families.”
The annual Champions of Appalachia celebration is underwritten by NetGain Technologies, a leading provider of Information Technology services and solutions since 1984. NetGain’s sponsorship supports CAP’s mission to build hope, transform lives, and share Christ’s love through service in Appalachia.
Christian Appalachian Project has been building hope, transforming lives, and sharing Christ’s love through service in Appalachia since its founding in 1964. With the help of donors, volunteers, staff, and the communities it serves, CAP has grown to impact the lives of nearly 2 million people each year. For more information about CAP, visit christianapp.org.
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