ALBEMARLE COUNTY, Va. (CBS19 NEWS) -- Loaves and Fishes is kicking off its third week of renovations. After COVID, the nonprofit realized that some changes will help it better serve the community.

Plans for a renovation began in 2021. The nonprofit realized a space that was once a waiting room could be better utilized. The changes will yield a fully functioning kitchen.

“We’ve heard from talking to people in the parking lot that sometimes they don’t know how to prepare some of the things we give. So, we want to teach them basic cutting skills for round fruits and vegetables so you don’t hurt yourself. Just really simple recipes that they can make healthy meals with,” said Jane Colony Mills, Executive Director of Loaves and Fishes. 

Loaves and Fishes finds it important to not only provide fresh produce to families but to help them store, freeze and cook it. 

Although much of the organization's building is under construction, the staff is still serving 130 families each day.

Renovations should be done before Christmas, which Loaves and Fishes anticipates to be its busiest time of the year.