In March, when Thurmont Kountry Kitchen Restaurant owners, Sherry and Rob Myers, heard that the Frederick County Public School System had initially left out Northern Frederick County as part of its student lunch provisions during the coronavirus shutdowns in March, they immediately took action to fill the gap. Sherry said, “I want to make sure the kids are fed.”
Plans were made to hand out bagged lunches for kids from their restaurant on Water Street in Thurmont and the Vigilant Hose Company’s Fire House on West Main Street in Emmitsburg.
While working the lunch station in Emmitsburg, the Myers’ son Bobby explained, “We just knew we’ve gotta do something. We do it for the kids. We all have to stick together. We won’t turn anyone away.”
Since starting the program, the Myers’ have been stunned by the outpouring of community support. The Town of Emmitsburg, the Vigilant Hose Company, the Facebook community, and the Catoctin community showed up with donations of food, money, and support. Catoctin High School’s new football coach, Mike Rich, asked what he could do to help. He then messaged his parents and players, who also showed up with donations and support. Sherry said, “People showed up. People we don’t even know.”
Sherry has been deeply moved for, and by, the community. Her reward is knowing the lunch program is appreciated. The bonus is having the community come together.
Bobby said, “As long as we have a turnout, we’ll be here for the kids.”
