A Table for All
Each evening, from 5:00-6:00 PM, the Gathering Place serves up a free meal for anyone in need. Kids, teens, adults, and entire families come together at this bright, red-brick house to enjoy a nutritious dinner. Guests can take their meal to go, sit inside, or gather on the porch to chat with others while eating. The Gathering Place is a space where everyone is welcome.
40 Years & Counting
The Gathering Place has been helping neighbors since 1982. Lisa Janssen, Administrator, says, “Guests come here because of the friendly and approachable environment, and when they arrive at the front steps, they are welcomed by a staff member who simply asks if they want to eat here or get a meal to go.” Many people enjoy eating on the porch and conversing during dinner, sharing stories and laughter.
By 4:00 PM—an hour before doors open—there’s often a small crowd waiting. Jessie Hedrick, Communications and Development Director, explains, “Everyone knows each other, and staff know guests by name, as well as those who have dietary restrictions. We have one guest who’s come every day since 2009.”
Helping Hands
Volunteers play a big part in the Gathering Place experience. “We have over 300 regular volunteers,” says Jessie. “We have four to five volunteers every night, and there’s typically a waitlist to be a volunteer.” They help box the meals and clean up afterward to ensure the space is ready for dinner the next evening.
Meals for Everyone
In 2024, the Gathering Place served more than 55,660 meals! Operated by Community Action Partnership of Lancaster and Saunders Counties, the staff make certain every plate includes fresh fruit, vegetables, and protein, so guests have healthy, filling food. When they say everyone, they really mean it. If you’re hungry, come to the Gathering Place—no paperwork, no questions, just a healthy meal for you and your family.
A New Place to Gather
By 2027, the Gathering Place will move into a larger building just a few blocks away from their current location. Jessie says, “We’ll nearly double the space, so we’ll be able to fill bigger needs.” Even with the bigger building, the friendly feel won’t change. Lisa adds, “There will still be a large front porch, and it will still feel like home to everyone who comes.”
Looking to make a meaningful impact in the community? Reach out to Sam Bates at sbates@communityactionatwork.org or (402) 476-7398 for more information. Your time and compassion can help ensure that no one in our community goes hungry.