Brief History
The Waterville Area Soup Kitchen was founded as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic in the summer of 2020, it was established to fill a gap left by the closure of the Sacred Heart Soup Kitchen. Initially, due to the pandemic and limited resources, we operated on a small scale. Volunteers met twice a week to prepare hot soup or stew and make a few dozen sandwiches. These were then distributed from personal vehicles at strategic locations around Waterville, ensuring a heart meal for anyone in need.
In the spring of 2022, we secured a physical location at 38 College Ave. and started welcoming guests inside to dine. Since that time, “The Lighthouse” has been serving lunch, featuring a hot entree with sides and desserts. A team of volunteers prepare and serve an average of over 300 hearty meals each day. Additionally, the Lighthouse offers breakfast, including cereal, toast, muffins, juice, and coffee.
133,696
Meals Served as of
September 30, 2024
(including nearly 6,000 served on the street between November 2020 and May 2022)
70
Volunteers
2.5
Years in Operation at the Lighthouse
Our All-Volunteer Organization
In addition to our Board of Directors (below), we have a dedicated team of about 70 volunteers who are essential to our operation. These volunteers include teams from local businesses and the faith community, each committing one day a week to assist with serving lunch. We also have individuals, ranging from young adults to seniors, who regularly contribute their time and effort.
There is no paid staff. Every role – from cooks and food preparers to those serving meals and pouring beverages, from table cleaners and spill handlers to dishwashers and floor sweepers – is filled by volunteers. Their collective effort is what makes our mission possible.
Board of Directors
Carla Caron
President
Austin Segel
Vice President
Gordon Cheesman
Treasurer
JoAnn Lemire
Secretary
Dean Dolham
Director
Audra Weisel
Director
John Perry
Director
Angela Leary
Director
Anna Holdener
Director
Barbara Pouliot
Director
Marie McDonald
Emeritus
Paul McDonald
Emeritus