Mercy Chefs opening long-term kitchen in Hill Country to boost flood recovery

AUSTIN (KXAN) -- After serving nearly 60,000 chef-prepared meals to those in the community following the devastating flooding in Kerr County, Mercy Chefs announced it is sticking around to provide meals through December.

Mercy Chefs, a Virginia-based disaster relief organization, announced the long-term establishment in the Hill Country as Beacon of Hope Kitchen. The organization said the commitment was possible through partnerships with Blind Faith Foundation, City West Church, Light on the Hill at Mount Wesley and the Community Foundation of the Texas Hill Country, according to a news release from Mercy Chefs.

"We know it will take years for this area to return to normal, and we're not going anywhere," Gary LeBlanc, Mercy Chefs founder and CEO, said in the release. "It's an honor to stand alongside this resilient community as they rebuild. In times of crisis, a warm plate of food offers more than nourishment, it brings comfort, dignity and reminder that someone cares."

At least 136 people were killed in catastrophic flash flooding across Texas, while at least eight others remain missing, as of Friday. Deaths were confirmed in six counties, with the majority in Kerr County.

The organization said the Beacon of Hope Kitchen at Light on the Hill Mount Wesley, located at 610 Methodist Encampment Road in Kerville, will soon open. However, operations for meal distribution at City West Church, 3139 Junction Road in Ingram, will continue with daily lunch and dinner service.

"The kitchen, as well as new dedicated warehouse space for food and grocery box storage, will significantly expand Mercy Chefs' capacity with upgraded equipment," Mercy Chefs said.

The long-term recovery effort comes after noting that the flooding in Kerr County "has intensified an already critical food insecurity crisis in the region."

"Before the floods, about 9,300 people in Kerr County were experiencing food insecurity, according to the latest public Feeding America data," Mercy Chefs said.

The organization said hundreds were out of work after the flooding, and the need for hot meals in the Hill Country "has never been greater."

"In response, Mercy Chefs will offer employment opportunities to local residents. By hiring directly from the community, Mercy Chefs' hope is to provide both nourishment and stability as the region rebuilds," the organization said.