Coatesville’s Olivet United Methodist Church has officially opened a commercial kitchen that will be used to offer free lunches and nutrition education programs to Coatesville residents, thanks to many local volunteers and funding from Chester County’s departments of Community Development and Health.

Commissioners Kathi Cozzone and Michelle Kichline, together with staff, church members and volunteers, community leaders and government representatives recently cut the ribbon to open Olivet’s new kitchen. The kitchen was designed and built to commercial standards, allowing the church to provide weekly free lunches for Coatesville residents.

Michael Givler, Olivet’s Food Ministry Outreach Team coordinator, praised the many volunteers and county officials who made the project a success. Olivet also worked with the Chester County Food Bank. Nutrition education programs are on tap for the future.

The commissioners also thanked the dedicated volunteers.  The church is located at 310 E. Chestnut St., Coatesville.