Soup Kitchen

In the summer of 1984, Dr. Toombs Kay, in one of his sermons said, “One of the greatest ministries this church could offer to the city would be a soup kitchen for the homeless and less fortunate people.” Several church members also recognized the need, and along with then-Associate Pastor Raymond Johnson, began organizing the program. On September 27, 1984, the church opened its doors to anyone who wished to eat a meal and join in fellowship with others.

While only 5 people came to the first Soup Kitchen in 1984, Church Street now averages 150-200 trays distributed per week. Over its 35 year history, Soup Kitchen is open year-round and only closes due to extreme circumstances. Soup Kitchen is not open on Thanksgiving Day, thanks to the plentiful options available around Knoxville. In 2019, Soup Kitchen will also be closed on December 26, as the church building is closed for the holiday.