A Caneyville church was announced as winner of WJCR’s canned food drive on May 15, taking home a custom-made Gibson Les Paul electric guitar for their efforts.

WJCR’s Food and Ministry Festival is held every year on the grounds of WJCR’s (Christian radio station) campus, located in Upton, KY (just outside the Grayson County line). Its purpose is to raise fellowship between area communities and churches by offering the public musical entertainment, kids the Omega Power Force weightlifting team, a live auction to bid on items, free food and bounce houses for the youngsters.

Wilson Home Baptist Church Youth Ministry, located on Bryant Ridge Road, collected over 6,900 cans of food for WJCR’s food ministry.

The food ministry operation for WJCR is one of the largest in Kentucky. Families who are eligible for the service must qualify under certain federal guidelines first before receiving free groceries.

In order to take part in the merriment this year, families were asked to bring three cans of food. That was their admission into the festival.

WJCR Food Ministry Benefit Auction Coordinator Carolyn Turner was surprised at the turnout for the all-day event.

“The benefit Saturday was a great success,” Turner mentioned. “The auction raised over $8,000, and the number of canned goods donated was 15,014. That total was up a little from last year. Wilson Home Baptist Church Youth Ministry, Caneyville, KY won the grand prize, a custom made Gibson Les Paul Guitar. Ms. Mabel Lush won second place, which was an all expense paid trip to the smokies. “

Over 2,000 people showed up to support the cause, and 12 people were saved.

“The people got saved at the Omega Power Force Presentation. No amount of money can buy that. We are all praising the Lord.”

Turner urged that for anyone who has not visited WJCR, they are missing out on a lot of fun and fellowship.

“I have never been a part of something so loving and caring as this place is,” Turner explained. “During these difficult economic times about 630 families are being served each month at WJCR. The number continues to grow. Recipients receive food, drinks, clothes, prayer and hope. Our goal is to give folks a hand up, not just a hand out.”