Acton’s Roxy Centre has become known as a hub for helping the community.
So it may come as no surprise that the downtown facility, in partnership with the KD Foundation, recently expanded its offerings to include what’s known as the Acton Community Kitchen - an opportunity twice a week for local residents to enjoy a nice, warm bowl of soup.
“A group of people (now called the KD Foundation) approached the Roxy because they saw a need in the community and wanted to do something,” explained Roxy Centre director Payge Lucas.
From there, the Community Kitchen was born. Between 11:30 a.m. and 1 p.m. on Mondays and Thursdays, a group of volunteers serve up soup with all the fixings and dinner rolls, at no cost.
Lucas said the program’s popularity is growing, with homeless individuals, lower-income households and people from Acton group homes all coming.
“We also get people who just want to connect with those who are using the program,” she noted.
Depending on the day, the soup is either made by volunteers in a commercial kitchen or purchased with the help of contributions from the community.
“Some people donate money, so we will go and purchase restaurant-quality soups,” said Lucas, noting it costs about $100 a day to run the Community Kitchen.
Other programs and initiatives at the Roxy Centre include:
- Monday Morning Coffee Hour: Enjoy free coffee and tea while connecting with others every Monday from 10 a.m. to noon.
- Food for Life and the Roxy’s food pantry: Every Thursday from 9 to 11 a.m., and again from 6 to 8 p.m., local residents who need food can pick up fresh produce, meat, bread, etc. through the Food for Life program. The Roxy Centre also has its own food pantry of non-perishable items that can be accessed as well.
- The community closet: A place for local residents to pick up clothing at no cost, any time the Roxy Centre is open. The closet is currently focusing on winter outerwear and is accepting donations.
Anyone who wants to become involved in the Acton Community Kitchen or make a donation can contact Lucas at [email protected] or visit theroxycentre.com.
