Welcome to GWIM
a non-denominational, faith based, non-profit organization that serves the disadvantaged people living in our community.
Come visit us at:
16 Church St.
Waterbury, CT 06702
Give us a call and we'll be happy to talk with you! 203-757-7734
In 1933 the Waterbury Area Council of Churches began assisting the poor and the hungry. Although the name of the organizing group and location have changed a number of times, the purpose has never wavered. The Food Pantry opened in 1974 and the Soup Kitchen in 1977 at their S. Main St location. In 1985, space was made available called "Soup Kitchen II" located directly behind St John's Episcopal Church at 16 Church St. Both the Soup Kitchen and the Food Pantry are now housed within the walls of St John's who have generously opened their doors to this important ministry. We cannot thank St John's Parish enough for all they have provided over so many decades of service to the indigent and working poor in the Greater Waterbury Area.
Serving and Caring for Thousands Each Month!
Thanks to the generosity of our donors and to a lot of hard work by dedicated staff and many willing vounteers GWIM is able to make a difference in the lives of thousands of men, women, and children. Here are just some of the ways GWIM makes life possible and bearable for the people in the Greater Waterbury area who find themselves in need.
On any given day, Sunday through Friday, 300, 400 or as many as 675 men, women, and children are provided with a nourishing meal, a warm welcome, and an offer of assistance for life’s challenges. The Soup Kitchen of GWIM serves, as honored guests, all those who come. On weekdays the tables are set, dishes prepared, old friends greeted and new friends made. On Sundays and holidays nutritious bag lunches are supplied.
Through the work of the Food Pantry emergency bags containing twelve nutritionally balanced meals provided for each member of a household in need are given out on the last Monday of the month, as well as on a "need determined" emergency basis during the month. The Pantry supplies over 1200 emergency bags each month.
Professional social workers are available on certain days to assist persons in pursuing shelter and accessing existing resources available to them.