Readers of Food & Dining Magazine already know about Apron Inc.
About APRON Inc. is a non-profit organization committed to supporting the food and beverage industry in Louisville, KY, by providing financial assistance to workers in need. By alleviating financial burdens, APRON Inc. helps these essential workers focus on recovery and rebuilding their lives.
With 2024 about to take its place in history, Apron Inc.’s end-of-year holiday donation spotlight falls on Chef Ellen Gill McCarty, a dedicated culinary professional who has received several grants from Apron Inc. over the past decade while battling cancer. Chef McCarty’s story testifies to the impact of the organization’s ongoing work in the community it supports.
Before delving into Chef McCarty’s story, two Apron Inc. activity reminders for 2025.
- Happy Hour Friend-Raisers will continue to take place every last Wednesday of the month; next is January 29 at Black Rabbit.
- Chef in a Box pickups also will still be scheduled for the third Wednesday and Thursday of each month.
Courtesy of Apron Inc., here is Chef McCarty’s testimony.
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I’m Ellen Gill McCarty, a chef with over 40 years of experience, and I can personally attest to the profound impact Apron Inc. has had on my life and career. Since 2013, I’ve battled multiple cancers, starting with ovarian cancer, and most recently brain cancer in 2024.
For over 36 years, my family owned Science Hill Inn in Shelbyville, Kentucky, where I served as Executive Chef alongside my parents. After several years of fighting cancer, we made the heartbreaking decision to close the restaurant, and both of my parents have since passed away.
Though I no longer run the family restaurant, I now operate Gill on the Go, a catering service, specializing in Sunday Supper specials, as well as Crowler Catering, sharing my passion for cooking.
Throughout my cancer journey, APRON Inc. has provided me with crucial financial and emotional support. Their grants have eased the burden of medical expenses, allowing me to focus on recovery and return to cooking. But it was their kindness, compassion, and sense of community that truly lifted my spirits during the darkest times.
For over a decade, APRON Inc. has been a source of hope and solidarity, making a lasting impact on my life and the lives of many others in the culinary community. I am deeply grateful for their unwavering support.
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A closing unsubtle hint: If you were thinking of donating to Apron Inc., the non-profit’s secure donation portal is eager to hear from you before midnight on the 31st.
