Beverly’s Hearty Slice partnered with local shelters and community businesses to offer seven families a one-of-a-kind holiday retreat. The families are enjoying a two-night stay at the Hampton Inn & Suites by Hilton Downtown Owensboro/Waterfront along with dinners, gifts, and more.
The families, selected by the Daniel Pitino Shelter, My Sister’s Keeper Women and Children’s Shelter, and St. Benedict’s Homeless Shelter, are enjoying a planned holiday experience, including gifts for the children, meals provided by local restaurants, and a special dinner on Christmas Day.
“We wanted to make this a Christmas these families will never forget,” said Travis Owsley, founder and executive director of Beverly’s Hearty Slice. “Our mission has always been to spread hope and love in this community, and this program is an extension of that. To see the joy on these families’ faces — especially the children — makes everything we do so worthwhile.”
In preparation for the event, the children were asked to write Christmas wish lists, and the nonprofit ensured that every item on their lists was fulfilled. Meals are being provided by Little Caesars and Lee’s Famous Recipe Chicken on Christmas Eve, while Lure Seafood and Grille will host a special Christmas dinner served by volunteers on Christmas Day.
The evening will also feature photos with Santa courtesy of Jimmy Wathen, and gift baskets for the families, donated by local business owner Madlyn Hyland.
“This is such an incredible gesture, and these are truly worthy families,” said Harry Pedigo, executive director of St. Benedict’s and the Pitino Shelter. “I’ve been blessed to witness several deserving families, single mothers, and single fathers over the last several years from St. Ben’s, St. Gerrard, and the Pitino Shelter.”
Pedigo said the excitement from the clients leading up to the experience is amazing.
“They all want me to listen and hear all about it. Then afterward they rush in to share with me the whole experience,” he said. “It’s only through community that things like this exist. It’s a short experience but has transformative ability. Travis and his team do an amazing job.”
The event was made possible in part by a grant from IMPACT 100 Owensboro and additional support from sponsors including NextEra Energy Resources.
“It’s been a blessing and a pleasure to work alongside Travis and his amazing crew. They always put community first,” said Angel Welsh, founder and executive director of My Sister’s Keeper. “For MSK, we are grateful to have the opportunity to help gift these families an experience they may never have otherwise. Just seeing the families have something to look forward to is the ultimate present.”
Owsley also credited volunteers and board members for their dedication to the cause.
“Our board and volunteers are the heart of this organization,” Owsley said. “We couldn’t do this without their support, and I’m so thankful for every single person who helps make events like this possible.”
Beverly’s Hearty Slice plans to expand its outreach in the coming year, but for now, the focus is on ensuring these seven families have a Christmas to remember.
“Our hope is that these families feel love and joy this holiday season,” Owsley said. “It’s all about bringing the community together and making a difference in people’s lives.”
