A grandmother in Missouri, Kathy Kite, insists on continuing her tradition of serving free homemade breakfasts, despite warnings from county health officials. The officials warned her about legal trouble for serving without a permit, but Kite is determined to continue. Her efforts are aimed at bringing the community together.
“I’m not gonna stop providing for my community,” Kite declared. “I wouldn’t stop feeding my family, and I won’t stop feeding my community.”
Since May, Kite has been preparing breakfasts for her neighbors and friends. Her initiative began as a response to local demand after the gas station where she worked halted breakfast services due to COVID. In July, she received a letter from the Columbia/Boone County Public Health and Human Services Department, indicating she needed a food permit or she might face legal action.
Despite concerns, Kite has been motivated by the growing attendance at her breakfast gatherings. Initially catering to a few regulars, her initiative quickly expanded. Residents visited for coffee, breakfast, and conversations, allowing community bonding over topics ranging from farming to weather.
The Public Health Department, as per Kite, suggested she install a commercial kitchen due to the scope of her breakfast services. According to Kite, this would entail significant expense and disrupt her century-old home’s integrity. She expressed openness to city officials visiting her home to witness her efforts.
“Come have a burrito,” Kite invited. “I’m a grandma cooking for my friends and family. My kitchen is clean, and people are healthy.”
The Goldwater Institute intervened, sending a letter to the health department seeking clarity on their legal stance. The institute highlighted that Kite’s situation reflects excessive bureaucratic demands. They emphasized that citizens should offer neighborly kindness without excessive oversight.
Responding, the Columbia/Boone County Public Health and Human Services Department stated with Fox News that food permits are required based on Missouri food code when serving the public. Permits aren’t needed when providing food for family and friends.
The department emphasized its role in promoting safe food practices to prevent food-borne illnesses. They asserted there were no citations or cease-and-desist orders and welcomed Kite to explore safe ways to provide homemade food with or without permits.
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