The Kansas CW | Residents Speak Out Against Lord's Diner Location

Residents Speak Out Against Lord's Diner Location

by Kim Wilhelm (WICHITA, Kan.)

For John Elmore's father, it started with a work injury.  He lost his job, lost his wife and found himself homeless.

"I just want people to know that sometimes stuff goes bad and there's nothing you can do about it," said Elmore.  "There are places like this that are around."

The places Elmore talks about are the Union Rescue Mission and the Lord's Diner.  He says his father relied on both to make it through during his rough time.  When Elmore heard the Lord's Diner wanted to open a second location at 21st and Grove, he supported it.   The building is the former Boys and Girls Club facility.

But ask those who live near here and you'll get a much different answer.  The Wichita Ministerial League held a meeting Thursday night for residents to ask questions and get information about the move.   Nearly everyone who spoke was in opposition of the location. 

"We get portrayed for being insensitive and uncaring and unwilling when all we want is to stand up for what we believe is best for the community," said one community member at the meeting. 

Some who spoke say the issue is that it goes again revitalization efforts of 21st Street.  They say the Lord's Diner has good intentions but it's just not the right location. 

"If we do not want what you're trying to give us, I figure you shouldn't try and give it to us," said resident Jimmy Fields Sr.

Some spoke about how churches in the area already fill the need by preparing meals and serving them in their congregations.  They say the need is already being met by them. 

Another issue - some residents believe the Lord's Diner will eventually close the current location in downtown Wichita because of the new Intrust Bank Arena.  They believe there's a push to get it out of the downtown area because of tourism dollars.  But Wendy Glick with the Lord's Diner says that rumor is false.  She reassured the crowd the downtown Lord's Diner location will stay open.

Many of the people at Thursday's meeting plan to speak again in front of the Wichita City Council on Tuesday.  A public hearing is set for 9 a.m. at City Hall.  The Council may decide whether to approve the Lord's Diner lease at the 21st and Grove location after the hearing. 

Elmore remains hopeful the second location is approved.  He says his father is back on his feet because of the Lord's Diner.

"I would just like to thank whoever is in charge of the Lord's Diner," said Elmore.  "Thanks for feeding my dad. He needed the help. He can help himself now."