Recovery Kitchen Hosting Second Winter Festival Of Compassion

A Cookeville non-profit that feeds the homeless population hosting its Festival of Compassion Saturday.

Co-Founder Justin Veals said the event gathers several resources at one place while participants enjoy a free holiday meal.

“My wife and I Melissa, the co-founders of Recovery Kitchen, we’ve both experienced homelessness in our lives, and we’re both now in long-term recovery,” Veals said. “We’ve gotten our lives together, and we owe a debt to the universe. The Recovery kitchen is one way we pay that back.”

Veals said the organization will be giving away winter clothing, providing haircuts and hosting a narcan training. Veals said several social services will also be present for anyone searching for an avenue of change.

Veals said the festival starts at 12:00 at Collegeside Church of Christ. Veals said the organization will provide free transportation to the event. Veals said local churches and community partners make the food and services possible.