About
The Soup Kitchen is a volunteer based, registered charitable organization.
Approximately 300 dedicated people from various churches, organizations, and the public at large give generously of their time and talent to make this program possible. A Board of Directors is elected annually and oversees the operation of the program. By-laws, guidelines and an operation manual are in place in order to ensure compliance of health and safety standards as well as proper ordinance of the facility in order to fulfill our duties of providing exceptional services to our clients.
Our Mission
The mission of the Niagara Falls Community Outreach Program is to alleviate the pain of hunger by providing nutritious meals free of charge to persons in need with dignity and respect, in an atmosphere of acceptance and safety.The organization is carried on without purpose of gain for its members and any profits or other gains to the organization are used in promoting these objectives.
Our History
In 2008, the Community Kitchen, with 23 years experience, merged with the Out of the Cold Program which had been operating for 15 years. Both programs had similar mission statements which highlighted the urgency to help those less fortunate; to alleviate the inequities faced by many Niagara residents; and ultimately to come together as a community to provide support, strength, and a helping hand to our friends facing hardship. The merge allowed for wiser use of human and financial resources.
Who We Serve
Our guests are a cross section of society, many of whom face the challenges of unemployment, seasonally based employment, or fixed incomes. Some are dealing with physical, emotional, or mental challenges. Anyone in need is welcome, and may come to be fed with no personal questions asked.
Statistics
In 2020 we served 53,980 meals (average 148 guests per day) In 2023 our numbers increased to 88,687 meals averaging out to 249 guests per day and the numbers keep growing. We are extremely thankful for the generosity of Niagara's businesses, community and service groups, churches, families and individuals. Your sponsorship makes our job so much easier.
Our Funding
We depend upon the generosity of churches, businesses, social clubs, and individuals in the community. We also organize fundraising events that further support our organization. Niagara Falls Community Outreach is an independent charitable organization in the eyes of Revenue Canada with a registered number.
