The Beacon is an interfaith, not-for-profit network in Bourbon County that has been in existence for 40 years. They assist community residents with food, utilities, and other necessities during times of need.

“We are dedicated to providing an efficient link between churches, civic groups, and other service organizations to those in need,” according to Dave Gillen, the director.

This time of year, the community gears up to give gifts and food to those who need it.

“The Adopt-A-Family program is a project that The Beacon takes great pride in,” said Gillen. “We help local Bourbon County families bring Christmas to their homes. After the application is filled out, we make the families available for the public and organizations to come in and ‘adopt’.  They then purchase gifts for the children and The Beacon puts together a rather large holiday meal package for the family. The children’s Christmas gifts are purchased, wrapped, and tagged with the family number and dropped off at Community Christian Church, where we sort into the proper family group.”

Those who want to adopt a family can come to The Beacon, 525 E. Sixth, on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, or Friday from 9  a.m. to 1 p.m. to pick the family they want to adopt or call 620-223-6869.

There is an increase in the number of local families in need this year.

 “This year we have 112 families, which includes 290 children that will be up for ‘adoption.’These families are current Beacon clients or families needing help in Bourbon County. Last year we had 77 families for the Adopt-A-Child program so we had a major increase in local families in need this year.”

“This program could not be possible without the help of individuals, businesses, organizations, and our local fire department,” he said. “It takes many volunteers to transfer and sort food from The Beacon to the Community Christian Church gym.” 

“The Beacon also helps supply food items for the Elk’s Christmas Basket that is delivered the Sunday before Christmas,” he said.

“We are very busy this time of year with food and toy donations, sign-up, and just everyday activities,” he said. “We average about 25 to 30 families a day for food distribution and do some financial assistance to help residents of Bourbon County. The Beacon celebrated our 40th year helping Bourbon County this year. “

“We are dedicated to providing an efficient link between churches, civic groups, and other service organizations to those in need.“