Manna Community Kitchen, located in Northampton, Massachusetts, has been a cornerstone of community support since its inception. Founded in 1986, Manna Soup Kitchen was established to address the growing needs of individuals and families facing food insecurity within the local area. This initiative started 40 years ago at St. Johns Church, where volunteers first gathered to serve meals to those in need. Its mission is to provide nutritious meals in a welcoming environment to anyone in need, with no questions asked.

Initially, Manna began as a small grassroots initiative led by volunteers who recognized the urgent need for a reliable source of hot meals in the community. The organization quickly garnered support from local residents, businesses, and faith-based groups, which enabled it to expand its services and increase its impact.

Over the years, Manna Soup Kitchen has evolved and adapted to better serve its guests. In 2018, Manna changed its name to Manna Community Kitchen to offer a more welcoming feel to the organization. Manna serves meals five days a week and offers an annual, free, Thanksgiving and Christmas meal. The kitchen also emphasizes the importance of dignity and respect in its services, ensuring that every individual who walks through its doors is treated with care.

In response to COVID-19, Manna opened up its community center, originally called the warming center, to offer those in need a warm place, showers, laundry, and support and resources. Manna currently serves and delivers over 300 meals daily and sees an average of 30–40 people in its Drop-In Center.

In addition to meal services, Manna Community Kitchen has collaborated with other local organizations to offer additional resources, such as access to social services, health screenings, and job placement assistance. This holistic approach aims to address the broader challenges faced by those experiencing food insecurity and homelessness.

Through the dedication of its volunteers and the generosity of its supporters, Manna Community Kitchen continues to be a vital part of the Northampton community, embodying a spirit of compassion and solidarity in the fight against hunger.