Southeastern Kentucky Rehabilitation Industries (SEKRI) of Middlesboro completed their first official work week.

“We are up and running,” plant manager Thalia Hatmaker said. “Yesterday morning, we completed the first tent fully constructed here in the Middlesboro facility.”

SEKRI primarily makes clothing and gear for the U.S. military. It is a non-profit organization that began in 1971 to employ people most would consider unemployable.

This is the organization’s seventh facility.

“I’m so proud of and happy for our busy and determined group,” Hatmaker explained. “We had a great time in Pineville, and we’re looking forward to spreading our wings in Middlesboro.”

SEKRI spokesperson Stan Baker said, “The most amazing thing that SEKRI offers is employment opportunities to people who fall into the disability spectrum.”

Mayor Rick Nelson was excited to welcome the business to Middlesboro.

“It helps the city of course with the occupational tax. It gives the families hope and a new income. I just think it’s a win, win, win,” says Nelson.

Following a new release from SEKRI in mid-January stating the manufacturing facility would be located in Middlesboro, a job fair was held that brought in hundreds of attendants.

The Bell County Chamber of Commerce and Nelson want to invite everyone out to the new plant in the Whitmer Industrial Park on Monday at 3:30 p.m. for a ribbon cutting and celebration.