Small Town, Big Heart
Embedded Files
Beth LaBerge
Team Cobb
Story Summary
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Miss Kay Hopkins, 65, witnesses the quiet struggle of Kennett, a town defined by a tight-knit community but strained by economic hardship. As she navigates the streets she’s known since childhood, she sees not just the symptoms of poverty, but the faces of people she cares about.
To those who know her, Miss Kay is more than just a source of assistance; she is a constant presence and a reminder that someone in Kennett still sees them and cares. She uses her knowledge of the town to anticipate what will make a difference, whether it’s a meal for someone who’s hungry, a ride to the grocery store or a needed conversation.
She’s become a testament to the resilience and the power of showing up, again and again, for the people and place she’s rooted in.
Kay Hopkins, 65, talks to a friend on the phone while sitting on her front porch in Kennett, Mo. Known to many in the community as Miss Kay, she’s become a constant source of support for those struggling through with economic challenges in the town.
Kay Hopkins volunteers for the Dunklin County Democrats, part of the Missouri Democratic Party, at the Delta Fair in Kennett, Mo. Active in local politics, she believes that grassroots efforts can help address the community’s economic challenges.
Kay Hopkins, right, sits with her friend Beverly Thomas on Beverly’s front porch. Kay volunteered at Virgie’s Place, a non-profit run by Kay that donates food and clothing to those in need.
Kay Hopkins, center, gives a bag of donated food to her neighbors who stopped by her house. Friends and neighbors know that Kay, although not wealthy, will offer support when she can.
Kay Hopkins, right, drops off a bag of donated food to Ann Harrell at a home where she is staying. Known to many in the community as Miss Kay, she’s become a constant source of support for those struggling through economic challenges.
Kay Hopkins, left, drops off a bag of donated food to Roger and Brandi Bundy on at their home. Hopkins is a frequent visitor to the Bundy family, who are out of work due to health issues.
Kay Hopkins, right, hugs a neighbor after giving her a bag of donated food outside of her house in Kennett, Mo. Friends and neighbors know that they can rely on Kay for a meal, a ride to the grocery store or a needed conversation.
Kay Hopkins, right, stops to visit her family at their apartment after giving them a ride home from WalMart. Kay checks on the family daily to offer support, especially for her great-great niece Anna, who lost her mother shortly after she was born
Kay Hopkins walks with her great-great niece Anna, 3, after attending the Delta Fair. Anna lost her mother shortly after she was born and has grown especially close to Kay, who offers her extra care and support.
Kay Hopkins rests on her couch at her home, enjoying a rare moment of solitude in her otherwise busy life. Hopkins had heart surgery two years prior and had to leave her job at the Kennett School District, so she fills her days offering assistance to others.
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