Preacher Ray and the Hard Core Disciples and Biker Church would like to welcome those who need a little extra help. With a grand opening last week, the thrift store is also a food pantry. Getting the bulk of the food through Operation Sharing Tennessee in Oneida, Preacher Ray receives enough food to feed at least 600 people per month.

"The church and I would like to thank Cocke County for contributions and support," said Preacher Ray. "We welcome any and all food donations as well as clothes, furniture, etc."

He explained that he must keep strict rules and regulations in the food pantry. There is a limit on how much you may receive. They accept food stamps with the EBT letter and a photo I.D. 

"For every four food pantry visits, we ask that we receive one day of volunteer work in return," said Preacher Ray. "We ask that you work in the thrift store for entire day. We keep your name and number on a card. Then, every time you visit us and receive free clothes or food, we hole punch the card. We contact you and schedule when you can volunteer for us."

The Hard Core Disciples have acquired the warehouses and property behind Food City West. They hope to open a job training program and a neighborhood youth gathering. Gary and Karen Grassman, who are the youth pastors at the Hard Core Disciples Biker Church, will head this.

"We want this to be a gathering place for the youth to come grow spiritually and have the ability to express themselves," said Preacher Ray.

For more information on the thrift store, food pantry, or the youth group, please contact Preacher Ray at 865-237-2139. The thrift store is located at 422 Old Knoxville Highway. It is in the old Hawk Grocery building next to the West-End Exxon.

"We appreciate the folks of Cocke County for the support and donations," said Preacher Ray. "We look forward to a prosperous and spiritual campaign in the county."