Our History
Open to all for over 30 years.
The 1980s
On November 11, 1980—during a difficult economic time in Birmingham, Alabama—The Community Kitchens (originally known as The Red Door Soup Kitchen) was established by Father Maurice Branscomb to provide meals to those in need. As unemployment soared, Father Branscomb witnessed firsthand the struggles of people in the Southside/Downtown area and decided to take action. With the support of St. Andrew’s Parish, he started serving soup to just two people at the beginning. But as the need grew, so did the program. By the end of the year, Community Kitchens was open five days a week. These modest beginnings marked the start of a program that has continued to thrive to this day. The goal was simple but crucial: to provide a nutritious, warm meal to anyone who was hungry, regardless of their circumstances.
The 1990s - Now
In 1991, Community Kitchens took a big step forward and created a community-based Board of Directors. This allowed us to obtain a 501(C)(3) nonprofit status—giving donors the opportunity to make tax-deductible contributions and opening the door to receive support from the wider community.
Even though Community Kitchens is no longer affiliated with St. Andrew's or Grace Episcopal Churches, we honor Father Branscomb's legacy by keeping our doors open to all. Our soup kitchen continues to offer free meals—feeding anyone who is hungry in Birmingham, Alabama—regardless of their religious affiliation or financial situation. To this day, those who eat at our tables are referred to as "guests."
Guests are treated with dignity, respect, and are always welcome.
