When Agent Mark Hehman of Catholic Order of Foresters’ Northern Kentucky/Greater Cincinnati Agency learned he was selected for the Richard Tobin Benevolence Award, he didn’t hesitate about what to do with the $500 worth of proceeds. The decision was easy. He donated the funds to an organization close to both his heart and his family: Parish Kitchen, a ministry of Catholic Charities in the Diocese of Covington.
Parish Kitchen has been a constant presence in Northern Kentucky for over five decades. Since its founding, the ministry has served hot, free lunches to anyone who walks through its doors. No forms, no eligibility screenings, no red tape.
For many individuals and families living on the margins in the area, it’s consistent nourishment they can rely on.
Mark’s brother John Hehman works with Parish Kitchen, and the two have long admired its ability to meet people where they are.
“Parish Kitchen is important to me because so many families are struggling to make ends meet,” Mark said.
As part of its 50th anniversary, Parish Kitchen is raising funds to expand its facilities so it can serve even more people. Mark’s donation went directly to this effort, which includes constructing a new multi-purpose building that will house the ministry’s mobile pantry truck and allow for expanded food storage. This will help bring food directly into neighborhoods where transportation is a barrier, especially in underserved rural and low-income areas.
The anniversary fund will also support several other key initiatives. Among them is Pickett’s Corner, a Catholic Charities bike repair and service program that offers transportation solutions for individuals without access to a vehicle or public transit. It will also fund the hiring of a care coordinator, a position designed to connect guests with housing assistance, addiction recovery resources, and mental health services,
Safety and accessibility upgrades are also part of the plan. Donations will allow Parish Kitchen to upgrade its fire alarm system and install an elevator so that guests, volunteers, and staff can safely access second-floor offices and services, including case management, storage, and administrative support.
The goal of the anniversary fund is to raise $50,000.
The Richard Tobin Benevolence Award, named in honor of one of COF’s most beloved past leaders, is presented annually to agents who exemplify fraternal service. Mark’s decision to redirect that recognition to help others speaks to the deeper purpose behind both the award and Catholic Order of Foresters’ mission.
You can help, too. To donate to Parish Kitchen’s 50th Anniversary Fund and have your gift matched, scan the deer: https://www.covingtoncharities.org/parish-kitchen.
Article by Connor McEleney