Paducah, KY, August 21, 2025–

In a bold and flavorful move toward empowerment and healing, the Merryman House Domestic Crisis Center has partnered with nationally renowned chef Sara Bradley to launch a new spice blend product line with a purpose: to create jobs for survivors of domestic violence and generate sustainable funding for the nonprofit’s critical services.

"This partnership is more than a product launch—it’s a lifeline," said Mary Foley, Executive Director of Merryman House. “Through the creation and sale of these unique spice blends, we are creating meaningful employment for survivors, a sustainable stream of support for our mission, and supporting survivors through every season”

The new social enterprise is made possible by a generous contribution by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints—the first of its kind in the Purchase Region—which combines culinary excellence with a life-changing mission. Chef Bradley, owner of the celebrated freight house restaurant and a James Beard Award nominee, is known for her appearances on Bravo’s Top Chef as well as Food Network’s Chopped and Tournament of Champions. Her culinary vision and deep roots in western Kentucky made her a natural partner in this initiative.

Randy Balmforth, Paducah Kentucky Stake President of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, said, “The Church is grateful to work alongside Merryman House, as they seek to help the most vulnerable among us just as the Savior did. Projects that assist women and children, and others impacted by domestic violence, are extremely important as they help individuals to learn new skills, gain confidence, and better their lives and those of their families.”

Chef Bradley worked closely with Merryman House to craft the initial lineup of spice blends, each inspired by resilience and healing, and designed to bring vibrant flavor to any kitchen. The blends will be produced, packaged, and distributed with the help of domestic violence survivors, providing not only income but also dignity, skill development, and a pathway to independence.

“I believe food has the power to bring people together and change lives,” said Bradley. “I’m honored to use my craft to support such an important cause right here in my community.”

The spice blends will be available for purchase online and at select regional retailers beginning August 21st via the website www.seasonandshadow.com or via our agency website at www.merrymanhouse.org. Proceeds from each sale will directly benefit Merryman House services and programs.

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About Merryman House Domestic Crisis Center

Merryman House, a 501(c)(3) non-profit corporation, is committed to saving, building and changing the lives of victims of domestic violence. It has been serving the eight-county Purchase Region as the state-designated provider since 1979. Merryman House offers residential and non-residential programming as well. It has outreach offices located in McCracken, Marshall, and Calloway counties. Merryman House serves more than 1,000 victims per year, and all services are free and confidential.

If you would like more information about the Merryman House, please contact Mary E. Foley of Merryman House at 270-443-6001; email at Maryf@merrymanhouse.org; or visit the website at www.merrymanhouse.org and www.shadowandseason.com.

About Sara Bradley:

Chef Bradley has cooked professionally for 20 years including for Michelin-starred chefs in New York and Chicago. In 2015, she opened her own restaurant, freight house, back home in Paducah, Kentucky. She’s a two-time runner-up on Bravo’s Top Chef television series, including season 20’s World All Stars and season 16’s Top Kentucky. In 2024 Bradley claimed victory and became the first ever Chopped Legend on Food Network. She also holds the title of Chopped Champion. Sara was a semi-finalist for a James Beard Award, Best Chef Southeast this year (2025).

About The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is a worldwide faith of over 17 million members. The Church has over 30,000 congregations in more than 188 languages. It also operates several universities; a religious education program for youth and young adults with an enrollment of more than 400,000 worldwide; FamilySearch, the world’s largest genealogical organization; and a vast humanitarian aid program that provides over $1 billion annually in worldwide relief. There are 38,535 Church members that attend 83 congregations in Kentucky. The Church is headquartered in Salt Lake City, Utah.

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