Kingsport Churches Launch Memory Cafe for Dementia Support

New community program aims to assist those living with memory loss and their caregivers.

Published on Feb. 7, 2026

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A new community program called Beloved Community: Memory Cafe has launched in Kingsport, Tennessee, offering support and activities for people living with dementia and their caregivers. The program is a partnership between three local churches - First Broad Street United Methodist Church, Holy Trinity Lutheran Church, and St. Dominic Catholic Church.

Why it matters

The program was created in response to a growing need for support among older adults experiencing dementia and other memory-related conditions in the Kingsport community. It provides a welcoming, low-key gathering space with activities, music, prayer, and educational presentations to serve both those living with memory loss and their caregivers.

The details

Beloved Community: Memory Cafe holds weekly meetings on Thursdays from 10am to 12pm at First Broad Street United Methodist Church. The program is led by Betsy Cooper, a Kingsport city alderwoman and retired teacher, and is supported by approximately 20 volunteers from the three partnering churches. The gatherings include music, prayer, Bible study, movement, games, and educational presentations. The program is free and open to the public, but advance registration is required due to limited space.

  • The first meeting of Beloved Community: Memory Cafe was held on January 22, 2026.
  • The program meets every Thursday from 10am to 12pm.

The players

Joy Eastridge

Pastor of Congregational Connection at First Broad Street United Methodist Church and one of the program's organizers.

Delores Bertuso

Faith Community Nurse who helped identify the need for the program.

Carol Garland

Faith Community Nurse who coordinates the music for the program.

Betsy Cooper

Kingsport city alderwoman and retired teacher who coordinates the weekly gatherings.

Kenneth Carter

United Methodist Bishop whose book on the inherent value of people living with dementia inspired the program.

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What they’re saying

“We have really noticed the impact of memory loss in our older adults. And there was a need to address not only the people experiencing those changes, but also their caregivers.”

— Joy Eastridge, Pastor of Congregational Connection at First Broad Street United Methodist Church (timesnews.net)

“This is a place where the church can help build community.”

— Delores Bertuso, Faith Community Nurse (timesnews.net)

“One of the messages we want to communicate is that people are valuable regardless of their memory or ability to function.”

— Joy Eastridge, Pastor of Congregational Connection at First Broad Street United Methodist Church (timesnews.net)

“Having a place like the Beloved Community Memory Cafe gives both individuals and caregivers a space where they feel understood, supported and accepted.”

— Betsy Cooper, Kingsport city alderwoman and retired teacher (timesnews.net)

What’s next

The program is open to the general community, but sign-up is required. When the program is full, a wait list will be created. To reserve a place, contact Joy Eastridge at jeastridge@fbsumc.org.

The takeaway

The Beloved Community: Memory Cafe program demonstrates how local churches can come together to address the needs of their community, providing a welcoming and supportive space for those living with dementia and their caregivers.