Location: United Church of Penacook Fellowship Hall (Rear parking lot entry) Hours: 4:30 - 5:30 PM Days: October - May Monday, Wednesday, Friday June - September Monday, Wednesday
Who We Serve

Housed in Fellowship Hall, the Open Door Community Kitchen serves free hot and nutritious meals every Monday, Wednesday and Friday during October through May and every Monday and Wednesday during the summer months of June through September. Approximately 150 to 175 meals are served each month.

Anyone who comes to our door is welcome – without question or qualification.

Get Involved

Since its inception, the Open Door Community Kitchen has depended on the time and effort of volunteers who share a concern and commitment to those in need in our community. At the heart of this mission are people who donate their time preparing food, serving meals to guests, and cleaning up afterwards.

If you want to volunteer at the Open Door Community Kitchen, we ask you to bring three important things with you: a willingness to work, an open and positive attitude, and a smile. We can promise you that you will have some fun and learn a great deal about yourself and your fellow human beings.

What Do Meal Preparers Do?
Meal preparers cook a full meal for approximately 15-20 people and have it ready for the volunteer servers.

What Do Servers Do?
Servers work from 4 PM to 6 PM on their chosen day(s). Two volunteers assist in setting up the dining area, serving the food, greeting guests, handing out drinks, clearing and cleaning tables when the guests are finished eating, and cleaning the kitchen after the meal. No special skills are needed. You only need to bring yourself and your willingness to work.

How Often Do Volunteers Work?
Typically people schedule one day a month – it depends on you and your schedule. You can schedule as many days as you wish as a server or preparer.

Who Can Volunteer?
Both UCP members and members of the community are welcomed to volunteer. There is no age limit. However, a server team must have at least one responsible adult member who can open the building before the meal and lock up the building after cleanup is complete.

Still Not Sure?
If you need to see the volunteer process in action, contact the program coordinator to schedule a day to visit or partner with another volunteer who can show you the ropes. If you don't want to try this 'alone,' partner with a friend, a relative or a member of the congregation. Share the cooking or enjoy a few hours of serving others with someone who shares your desire to help others.

How Else Can I Help?
You may not be able to fit preparing or serving into your workday schedule. You may feel uncomfortable cooking for 15 or 20 people. Physical problems may not allow you to serve and clean up. You can still help the Open Door Community Kitchen.

• Donations are always welcomed to cover the expenses of the Kitchen. UCP provides the use of Fellowship Hall and its kitchen at no cost. However, there is no cash support budgeted for food, cleaning supplies, paper supplies, or equipment maintenance. These expenses are covered by personal contributions, support from area groups, and periodic offerings from the UCP Diaconate.
• Most food is donated by the meal preparers. You may want to partner with someone who can prepare food that you purchase.
• The current program coordinator is looking for some administrative support as she now embarks on a career outside the home. A few hours a week sharing support duties would be a welcomed gift.

To volunteer, you can complete the Opportunities to Serve form or contact the program coordinator by calling 603-753-4072.

History:

Over 30 years ago Lora Olsen funded the Open Door Community Kitchen..