Join your neighbors at the Cup of Grace Building every Tuesday evening from 4:30-6:30 p.m. for a delicious, free, home-cooked meal. Cup of Grace volunteers cook, serve, and clean up. All you have to do is enjoy yourself and say howdy to some new friends. For Tuesday meal menus, check out our Facebook page.
Ken’s Story: Finding Family and Purpose at
Cup of Grace:
For eight years, Ken has been a familiar face at Cup of Grace, a faith-based nonprofit in Spirit Lake, Idaho, dedicated to serving the community through meals, a food pantry, clothing closets, and more. As one of the first patrons to attend the Tuesday community meals when they began at the senior center, Ken’s journey with Cup of Grace reflects the organization’s heart and its motto, “Neighbors Helping Neighbors.” We recently spoke with Ken to learn how this welcoming community has become a cornerstone of his life.
Ken first heard about Cup of Grace through Amy, the visionary who brought the organization to life. “Amy was the one who told me about Cup of Grace,” Ken shared. “She had a vision and put it to practice. I learned about it when they began the community meal at the senior center.” That initial invitation sparked a tradition for Ken, who has been coming to the Tuesday meals ever since. “I come to the Tuesday meal,” he said. “I don’t have to cook, and I get to visit all my friends and listen to music.”
For Ken, the meals are about more than just food—they’re about connection. “I enjoy everyone’s company,” he said. “I like that everyone is so helpful, and it’s like family here.” He describes the atmosphere at Cup of Grace as having a “southern charm touch,” a warmth that makes every gathering feel like a homecoming. This sense of belonging provides vital social support. “It’s uplifting and relaxing,” Ken noted, emphasizing how the community lifts his spirits.
Beyond the meals, Ken has benefited from Cup of Grace’s food pantry, a critical resource for him as a retired individual on a limited budget. “I utilize the food pantry,” he said. “It’s good stuff, especially when you’re retired.” The pantry has helped ease financial pressures, allowing Ken to focus on what matters most—staying connected and giving back.
Ken speaks highly of the Cup of Grace staff and volunteers, describing them as “cheerful and helpful.” Their dedication creates an “open atmosphere welcoming everyone,” a quality Ken believes sets Cup of Grace apart. “Cup of Grace and the volunteers just want to help people out,” he said, reflecting on the genuine care that defines the organization.
Despite being disabled and unable to contribute as much as he once did, Ken finds purpose in encouraging others. “I like to be uplifting and encouraging to others,” he shared. His presence at the Tuesday meals is a testament to this, as he connects with newcomers and long-time attendees alike, fostering the same sense of family that drew him eight years ago. “Being disabled, I’m unable to do as much as I did in the past,” he said, “but I like to encourage others.”
When asked what he’d share about Cup of Grace, Ken’s message is clear: “It’s a place where everyone is welcome, and the volunteers just want to help people out.” His story embodies the spirit of Cup of Grace—a place where neighbors become family and a simple meal becomes an opportunity to uplift and inspire.
Ken’s eight-year journey with Cup of Grace highlights the organization’s lasting impact in Spirit Lake. Through its programs and the dedication of its volunteers, Cup of Grace continues to build a stronger, more connected community, one neighbor at a time. To learn more or get involved, visit Cup of Grace at their next Tuesday meal or community event.