Welcome

We understand that visiting a soup kitchen for the first time can feel intimidating. We want to make your experience as comfortable as possible. Here’s a quick guide on what to expect during your visit.

Your First Visit

When you arrive, a friendly volunteer will greet you. They may be outside or in the vestibule depending on the weather. Please make your way into the dining room and find an open seat.

Once you’re settled, a volunteer will come to your table to greet you and offer you a drink. You can choose from coffee, tea, iced coffee, iced tea, or water.

If you arrive during coffee hour (10 a.m. to 11 a.m.), a volunteer will also offer you a selection of pastries.

During our regular meal service, your volunteer will ask if you would like the day's entree, or alternate (peanut butter & jelly sandwich), provide you with silverware, and serve your meal. After you've finished, they will clear your plate and offer you dessert.

You are welcome to stay and relax in the dining room until 1 p.m.

Guest Code of Conduct

We do have a code of conduct we ask all guests abide by.

1) Treat volunteers, staff, and other guests with respect.

2) Violence, abusive or offensive language will be tolerated

3) Appropriate clothing is required, including a shirt and shoes. Please do not wear clothing with drug references or profanity.

4) No weapons of any kind (blades, pepper spray, etc).

5) Drugs or illegal substances of any kind, including paraphernalia, are prohibited.

6) No pets or emotional support animals per state law. Service animals are welcome.

This code of conduct is posted at all of our entrances and staff are happy to address any questions or concerns you may have.

Important Things to Know

There is no charge for our services. Everything we offer is completely free. Some guests choose to make a donation, but this is never required.
Free Wi-Fi is available for all of our guests.
Task-trained Service Dogs are welcome when with their handler.
Our dining room is accessible for those who use mobility aids
We do have bathrooms for guest use.

We look forward to seeing you.

If you have additional questions or have additional support needs, please contact our Guest Resource Coordinator, Sage at 338-4845 option 3 or sage@belfastsoupkitchen.org