FREE Friday Community Meal in Providence, RI

Every Friday afternoon, Better Lives Rhode Island hosts a sit-down community meal at 134 Mathewson Street in downtown Providence. Whether you're hungry, unhoused, or simply in need of a warm place to eat, you are welcome here.


Our soup kitchen in Providence RI serves not just dinner, but dignity—with helpful resources available on-site to support your health, housing, and legal needs.

Homeless and not sure what to do next?

or visit our Day Center at 12 Abbott Park Place.

📍 134 Mathewson Street – Fridays, 3:00–5:00 PM

 Doors open at 3:00 PM | Dinner is served until 5:00 PM

All are welcome. No ID or paperwork required. Just come as you are.

What’s on the Menu?

Every guest receives a full, hot dinner served with care by staff and volunteers.

A black and white drawing of a plate of food with a fork and spoon.
A black and white drawing of a bowl of food with a spoon in it.
A black and white drawing of a hand holding a tray with a dome lid.

Served restaurant-style in a safe, welcoming setting

Our meals change weekly but always aim to be hearty, nourishing, and served with respect.

More Than a Meal: Support Services On-Site

Thanks to our partnership with the 134 Collaborative, every Friday meal includes more than just food. You’ll also have access to:

  • Legal help for homeless Rhode Islanders (free clinics with attorneys and law students)


  • Health screenings and flu shots provided by local medical teams


  • Homeless outreach workers on site to connect you with shelter, case management, and more

In Partnership with  134 Collaborative

This meal program is made possible through our ongoing collaboration with the 134 Collaborative, a network of faith-based and nonprofit partners dedicated to equity and wellbeing in downtown Providence.


Together, we provide food, services, and a sense of community each week.

Sponsor a Community Meal

For just $300–$400, you can sponsor a Friday dinner and provide over 150+ hot meals to neighbors in need.

A black and white drawing of a medal on a white background.

Honor a loved one

Two wine glasses are toasting each other on a white background.

Mark a birthday or community milestone

A pair of hands holding a heart with a cross on it.

Make a tangible difference in one night

Volunteer to Serve

We rely on volunteers to help prepare, serve, and clean up each Friday. Whether you're an individual, a student, or part of a corporate or church group, we’d love to have your help.

Need Ongoing SUPPORT?

If you need help beyond the meal—whether it’s finding shelter, accessing benefits, or navigating housing—we’re here.

A black and white drawing of two people talking to each other.

Learn About Our Homeless Outreach Team

A black and white drawing of a house with a heart inside of it.
A black and white drawing of a clock on a white background.

See Our Food Pantry Hours

Looking to Learn More or Get Involved?

Explore stories from our Friday meals, holiday events, and the people we serve on our blog. You’ll find real-life moments, community highlights, and volunteer reflections.

Need More Than Food?

Our Homeless Outreach Team and Day Center offer help with housing, IDs, healthcare, and more.

Have Questions About Providence Food Pantry Hours or Eligibility?

Call us at 401-454-7422 or stop by during open hours. We're proud to serve our neighbors across 02903 and the greater Providence community.