Cape Girardeau man uses cooking skills to feed those in need

FOX23 News at 9 p.m

CAPE GIRARDEAU, Mo. (KBSI) — A Cape Girardeau man is using his background as a chef to make sure people in his community do not go hungry.

Frank Allen has spent years working in restaurants, but in 2017, he decided to take his skills beyond the kitchen and into the community. He said the idea started around Christmas, when he asked to donate food from the restaurant where he worked. When that request was denied, he chose to take action on his own.

Allen said a moment early on helped shape his mission. While at a local park, he noticed a man alone who was not asking for help but appeared to be in need.

“I was going to the park fishing — and there’s a guy there. He don’t bother nobody… he just there — and I know he needs a meal,” Allen said.

Since then, Allen has made it a routine to cook and deliver meals to people across Cape Girardeau. He said he provides food throughout the week and makes a point to serve people every weekend.

“I feed the homeless, the needy, the greedy — or the people that just don’t want to cook,” Allen said.

Allen said his motivation is also personal. He lost his sister when she was just two years old and said he now tries to live a life that honors her by giving back to others.

What started as a small effort has grown into a daily commitment. While Allen does most of the work himself, he said his girlfriend and a few friends help support the effort.

His impact has also reached beyond the local community. Allen said he sends food and support to a ministry outside the country, helping children in need.

Allen said his long-term goal is to expand his work even further.

“The vision is having a clubhouse where everybody can come and get whatever you need,” he said.

Until then, Allen said he plans to continue doing what he can to help others — one meal at a time.