Providence Soup Kitchen

Providence Soup Kitchen, a ministry of the Daughters of St. Mary of Providence, opened its doors to the homeless and needy guests close to thirty years ago. It began under the direction of Sr. Ann Schaffer at the request of Bishop Conway. It is located in the lower level of St. Stanislaus Kostka Church - not too distant from the downtown area of the City of Chicago, and serves over 21,000 meals per year to those in need.  An article by the Greater Chicago Food Depository highlights the tireless efforts of the volunteer team and the guests they serve.

Soup Kitchen Serving Hours
Monday - Thursday
11:00 am - 1:00 pm

The soup kitchen began with a meal consisting of a hearty bowl of soup and a sandwich, and soon progressed to a healthy meal, for all those who come through the doors. At present 25 guests are served at a time.  Then as the guests finish their meal, another group filters in to take their places. This continues until all the guests are served. This can vary for up to 110 people or more on most days.

The people who come to the soup kitchen are referred to as guests and receive the respect and dignity they deserve, in keeping with the ministry of Jesus.

The volunteers come from all over Chicagoland.  They minister with generosity and enthusiasm.  In addition to the volunteers, the Daughters of St. Mary of Providence are deeply grateful for the generosity of those who donate food and assist in meeting other needs of the soup kitchen.

There is always a need for volunteers. Volunteers are needed Monday to Thursday from 9:30 AM to 1:00 PM.

If you would like to volunteer, please stop by the soup kitchen to register for volunteering. You can stop by from Monday to Thursday from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM. The reason we ask volunteers to stop by to register in person is to meet with you, explain the expectations and duties of the volunteer, and answer any questions you may have in person.  We look forward to meeting you!

The soup kitchen entrance is accessible from the church parking lot on the south side of the church. Please see picture below of the Providence Soup Kitchen entrance.

Please drop off donations at the soup kitchen from Monday to Thursday from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM. Please do not drop off donations inside the church. Thank you for your support!