Second Fridays Community Meal

The first Second Fridays Community Meal was served at Andrews House in October of 1996 to an overwhelming group of diners. It was the result of a goal from William Street Church’s “Vision 2000” committee to provide a hot, well-balanced meal at no charge to anyone who needs or wants it on the second Friday of the month. Over the years an estimated 20,000 hot meals have been served!

Many churches and individuals have participated in making those meals happen. Shopping for meals, cooking, serving, cleaning up, and packaging the meals for carryout have been some of the tasks needed each second Friday. In the beginning, greeters and folks who would mingle with the diners helped make them feel welcomed. Eventually, some who first started coming as diners became part of the Second Fridays team of cooks and servers. On any given occasion, folks from churches, organizations, schools, or individuals who just wanted to help worked together to prepare and serve the meal. Second Fridays inspired other free meals to be served throughout Delaware, such as the First Wednesday meals that were served here at William Street Church. Even though diners have not come in person during COVID, those who have continued to help prepare and package Second Fridays meals have become a community in itself.

The Andrews House staff is always looking for folks who are willing to cook meals, package means, or help with cleaning up. If you are interested in helping, please call them at (740) 369-4520 to sign up.