As a part of our commitment to building a culture of peace in our community, Peace House coordinates the Uncle Foods Diner program, which serves a free community meal to Ashland residents on Tuesdays and distributes food to other local food programs when possible.
This work of mutual aid supports a reduction of violence in our community with compassionate action and helps to humanize people often disregarded by society. And, importantly, we provide a nutritious hot meal to scores of people who are hungry every week.
This fall, as the rains moisten the ground and cooler temperatures hint at the coming of winter, Uncle Foods is struggling to secure an indoor venue to serve our dignified meal in Ashland. This comes after the plan to renovate Pioneer Hall, the last usable building under ownership of the City of Ashland. Now the building has been deemed unusable to us, while it sits unoccupied, except for the empty tables and chairs visible through the windows.
We wonder if this obstacle is connected to what appears to be a changing face of Ashland, a town known for its kindness to strangers, support for progressive initiatives, and a City of Peace. A few weeks ago, the City announced the purchase of 2200 Ashland Street for a much-needed emergency shelter. Since then, vocal property and business owners have shown up to meetings in droves with passionate opposition to the purchase, citing concerns about safety and property values.
Where should people who have no home go, when it is snowing? Where should they eat, when they are hungry?
In communities around the world, programs like Uncle Foods Diner provide free meals for those without kitchens or access to food. These efforts do not come without controversy in many places. But for 30 years, Peace House has coordinated the dinner peacefully in Ashland. When we have had individual issues, we’ve done our best to help curb the impacts on neighborhoods and area businesses.
We implore residents of Ashland to open their hearts and minds and help us visualize an indoor location for the people we serve. They include residents of Ashland living outside, seniors, people with disabilities, students who can’t afford to live in SOU dorms, families, and workers whose wages fail to make ends meet.
Many of our local churches, that have generously hosted our meal for the past three decades, face stark financial realities stemming from smaller congregations and impacts of COVID. It is to this end that Peace House must now turn to the support of the larger community.
We are seeking help in securing a new location, preferably near public transportation, where we can serve our dinner. Can you help?
