Submitted

KANNAPOLIS — Jimmy Murphey’s Christmas is a meal distribution event and breakfast for needy families, held on Dec. 24 at Living Water Church of God, 166 N Little Texas Road.

Jimmy Murphey’s Christmas started in 1932 with his mother preparing meals and helping those in need during the holidays, though she, herself, was in need. Jimmy is a local legend in Cabarrus County and has devoted his life to his mother’s mission. 2014 was the first year Jimmy was too ill to coordinate his event. At present, Jimmy Murphey is in exceptionally poor health, and potentially won’t see Christmas 2017. Under the leadership of Josh Young, the volunteer team of Jimmy Murphey’s Christmas is committed to keeping this service to the community going.

This year we are planning to give out a Christmas meal, designed to feed a family of four, for them to take home and prepare.

Meals are distributed based on an honor system. Last year we served over 700 bags (each representing a family). We are adding a hot breakfast this year. Once families are given their meal, they will be welcome to stay for a hot pancake breakfast.

We are hopeful to get more community involvement via business sponsorships and donations. We anticipate that we will be serving at least double, potentially triple, the number of families we served last year.

Interested Volunteers can text @murpheyvol to 81010 to be added to our volunteer text list.