MY FRIEND'S HOUSE

The neat thing about living in the community you write in is that you get to see things unfolding, live, as they happen. As good fortune would have it, I’ve been watching a brand new, homegrown charity--a soup kitchen with planned clothes closet and overnight shelter--come to life. And Patrick Alligood, the exact right guy for the job, is learning the hands-on way that it takes a lot of work and time for that to happen.

Whether they have kids or like chocolate (or both), most Madisonians know Alligood. The Antique Sweets candy store owner directs traffic mornings at the primary school. He only misses to lead the All Pro Dads breakfasts, a rare opportunity for dads to share one-on-one time with their kids before the first morning bell rings.

Alligood also coaches soccer and serves on the elementary school council and volunteers on boards and committees and so he knows the community and understands its needs the way he gets how to cook up the perfect praline.

Which isn't to say he fully understands how to make that happen quickly.

Alligood wanted to do a collection for a world hunger fund but his young adult Sunday School students wanted to help with local food needs--a real “oh yeah....” moment for him.

From research to steering committee to incorporation has been a long, winding road on which Alligood has struggled to be patient.

“My intention was to get it up and running by now,” he says. “But there's usually a reason that timing doesn't work out like I want.”

For example, if the steering committee and feasibility study had been on schedule, it would have been ahead of the availability of the old county jail--the perfect facility for a project of this scope.

Also, in the delay, Madison Presbyterian Church has started up “Free Food Fridays,” proving grounds for volunteers and resources that will all transfer to Alligood's project in the long run.

Alligood says that after asking around about the idea, he pretty much had to get involved because “it was the right thing to do.”

“There are million dollar homes up and down Main Street and $40,000 vehicles all around town. But Morgan County average income is less than state average. There's a large population that struggles. Whether seniors or young families, children... 40 percent in the school system are on free or reduced lunch. So for me, I wanted to help the community, help my neighbors, help my friends....”

The charity's name—chosen by Alligood's mom--says it all. My Friend's House. As in "Where ya headed, man?" "Over to My Friend's House."

My Friend's House
1321 Dickson Rd
Rutledge, GA 30663
706-342-0034