For generations, the people of Eastern Kentucky have been defined by our grit, our generosity, and our willingness to work hard. Yet despite our strength, our communities have struggled with job loss, economic decline, and limited opportunities for young people to build a future here at home.

 

We believe it’s time for that to change.

 

Firebreak Foods, a rural manufacturing project founded by Eastern Kentucky native and wildland firefighter, Thomas Smith, is working to establish a food manufacturing facility right here in our region. This project will create living-wage jobs, support local agriculture, strengthen our local businesses, and help rebuild economic stability in the mountains we love.

 

This petition is about showing community support for new industry, new jobs, and new hope for Eastern Kentucky.

 

Why We Support Firebreak Foods:

 

✔ Living-Wage Jobs

 

Firebreak Foods will launch with 10 full-time employees and grow to 17–19 jobs within three years — all paid wages well above local norms. (My goal is $20 an hour minimum) 

 

✔ Rural Manufacturing Growth

 

The company will build a food production facility capable of serving the tri-state region and expanding over time.

 

✔ Innovative Distribution Model

 

Firebreak Foods combines wholesale, direct store delivery (DSD), and a national subscription program — creating stable, diversified revenue streams that help long-term job growth.

 

✔ Workforce Access

 

Firebreak Foods will operate an employee shuttle/bus system, opening opportunities to people across multiple counties, including those without reliable transportation.

 

✔ Local Values, Local Ownership

 

This project is led by a lifelong Kentuckian who has spent years serving communities in disaster relief and wildland firefighting — someone committed not just to a business, but to the people of this region.

 

✔ Economic Ripple Effects

 

More jobs mean more spending at local businesses, more tax revenue for our counties, more stability for families, and more reasons for our young people to stay.

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⭐ WHAT THIS PETITION DOES

 

By signing this petition, you are showing:

 

That our communities want new industry

 

That we support living-wage jobs

 

That Eastern Kentucky is ready to grow again

 

Your signature helps demonstrate the overwhelming community support behind this project — support that can help open doors, secure resources, and accelerate rural revitalization.

 

 

Join us in building the future of Eastern Kentucky — sign now.