Caldwell County Yokefellow

In 1968, some concerned Christians recognized the wisdom of a unified plan for assisting the poor. They realized that if churches joined forces to aid others, resources would be focused, creating better stewardships and a greater ministry for Christ. Their insight and foresight encouraged many churches and individuals to come together, pooling time and talents, to form Caldwell County Yokefellow. Later in 1968, rent-free property on Mulberry Street was made available by two Lenoir citizens for Yokefellow's first center. This gift, accompanied by the effors of many, led to the opening and chartering of Yokefellow as a non-profit corporation in May, 1969. In 1979, Yokefellow purchased a small building on the corner of Harper Avenue and Virginia Street and moved to that location. That building was remodeled and paid for by persons and churches that had compassion for those in crisis. In April 1993, Yokefellow broke ground for a new building that would double its space and would include an enlarged food pantry, a larger clothes closet, as well as a much needed storage area for furniture. Private offices, client waiting area, receptionist office and kitchen/board room were also in the plans. The building was completed and occupied in December 1993. An open house was help in May 1994 in celebration of the new building and Yokefellow's 25th Anniversary. In 2004, Yokefellow broke ground on a 25ft x 75ft expansion to the building completed in 1993. This expansion granted more square footage to both the Thrift Store and the Food Pantry. This new expansion was officially opened to the public Labor Day of 2005.