In 1983 Ithaca residents and businesses came together to create Loaves & Fishes of Tompkins County – a community kitchen. This effort was in response to the needs of neighbors suffering from hunger and poverty. Loaves & Fishes continues to rely on the generosity of St. John’s church, community residents and businesses to fulfill its mission: to provide a place for free meals, hospitality, companionship and advocacy for those in need regardless of their faith, beliefs or circumstances. All are welcome.
Mission:
Loaves and Fishes of Tompkins County is a Christian ministry which provides a place for free meals, hospitality, companionship, and advocacy for those in need, regardless of their faith, beliefs, or circumstances.
History:
When founder, Rev. Kathy Eickwort, made her pot of soup on July 26, 1983 intending to share it with the members of the committee that had been formed to begin their ministry of “hospitality and advocacy”, she had no idea that they would share their meal with three hungry and homeless people who turned up at the door of St. John’s Episcopal Church. Taking this as a sign to begin serving daily free meals, Loaves & Fishes began quietly with three guests, then five and within the first week more than 20 people joined in the meal.
In the first week, many food donations arrived – all given by local businesses and vendors who were aware of the mission. There were no public appeals, no notices given but the Ithaca community immediately began providing food to the kitchen. As the number of guests grew, pans of lasagna appeared from local restaurants, fresh fruit and breads came from vendors and bakeries … the generosity of Ithaca was abundant. Financial support was given, volunteers came and everything began to fall into place. Over the decades, community support and involvement has grown and flourished.
The name “Loaves and Fishes” is truly reflective of the workings and mission of this organization. Many are fed and comforted by the small and seemingly insignificant gifts that are given. Its daily needs are filled and at times it seems like a miracle.
Loaves & Fishes is Tompkins County’s only community kitchen serving free meals Monday -Friday. It is a “community kitchen” devoted to nurturing a community of people who care for and serve one another. Activities of all sorts are centered around the sharing of a nutritious meal each weekday including assisting our guests, through our Advocacy Program, in addressing their critical unmet basic needs and providing compassionate and practical support during times of crisis or significant transitions. All are welcome.
