CLARKSVILLE, Tenn. – (CLARKSVILLENOW) Manna Cafe Ministries announced Friday that they are expanding their services and plan on moving to a new location, the old Schrecker Moving & Storage building at 605 Providence Blvd.
Kenny York, founder of Manna Cafe, says the organization is under contract to buy the 44,000 sq. ft. complex, which will become the future Manna Village, expected to be operational early next year.
The Village will consist of four buildings, including a two-story, 22,000 square foot facility that dates back to the Civil War and has been dubbed the ‘Big House’. Much of the main floor will be used as the office and waiting room for Manna’s food distribution clients. The remainder will be divided into offices and work spaces and a health clinic in partnership with Dr. Christopher Standley of Dynamic Healing.
Plans are for the remaining space to be made available for other partnering agencies. Around the perimeter of the Big House will be divided into offices, meeting rooms and conference rooms with the center of the building offering a huge open room that can be used as a worship center or a venue for concerts, conferences or other speaking events.
“Manna Cafe is just one agency and as much as we’d like to, and sometimes try to do everything, we can’t,” York said. “But what if we create a community of like-minded people and agencies who are committed to restoring the lives of those who need a hand to get back on their feet?”
(Photos: Manna Cafe Ministries)
Another 6,000 square foot building will be converted into a Refuge Community Center with a large multipurpose room for community meals, church services, a training center and for programs like Celebrate Recovery. There is also expected to be areas for activities, computer labs, private space where case workers can meet with clients, and a fully operational kitchen to support events in the Refuge Center. Buildings three and four will be used for two 7,500 square foot warehouses.
“In order for this village to operate and be successful, it’s going to take a lot of people. I’m asking you to pray about getting involved whether through finances, labor or service. I believe the Manna Village is going to shift things in our city and change our community forever so please don’t miss out on being a part of it,” York said.
For more information about Manna Cafe, visit the official website.