Local Soup Kitchen Celebrates Milestones

Utica, NY (WIBX) - A local soup kitchen is celebrating its third anniversary, as well as, the milestone of having served over 70,000 meals to those less fortunate. Mother Marianne's West Side Kitchen, located in St. Joseph - St. Patrick Parish Center on Columbia Street in Utica, is an all volunteer operation that serves soup and sandwiches from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., Monday through Friday.

The humanitarian group also serves bag lunches during the weekend. A spokesperson for the group says they exist to serve the working poor, the unemployed and the homeless, thanks in large part to the community's support. Deacon Gil Nadeau, the founding director said, "It's also a ministry, driven by the Gospel call to see Christ in others and to meet need where it exits."

The organization also runs the John Bosco House on Lafayette Street in Utica, that provides transitional care for young men in need. The Soup Kitchen officially opened its doors on March 17, 2008. To learn more or to find out how you can help the non-profit group, visit the organization's website at, www.westsidekitchen.org.