The whole point of being alive is to evolve into the complete person you were intended to be. - Oprah Winfrey
PROGRAMS
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Soup for Souls
Soup for Souls is a mobile food distribution program dedicated to ensuring residents in Philadelphia have access to essential nutritional support. Recognizing the crucial need for proper growth and development within communities, Soup for Souls collaborates with partner organizations to provide families with free access to supplements and nutritional support. Through their efforts, they aim to enhance the well-being of individuals by addressing fundamental nutritional needs.
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LLEAC- Life-Long Educational Advancement for Children
L.L.E.A.C is an educational program that provides mentor support tailored to children in challenged communities, offering personalized guidance and academic assistance. We prioritize holistic development by fostering a nurturing environment that encourages curiosity, critical thinking, and empowerment. Through dedicated mentorship, we aim to bridge educational gaps, inspire lifelong learning, and cultivate a brighter future for these young individuals and their communities.
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Amelia’s Gill MISSIONARY
Amelia’s Gill Missionary is a compassionate program dedicated to brightening the days of sick and ailing individuals. Through thoughtful card distributions, they deliver heartfelt messages of hope and inspiration, aiming to uplift spirits during difficult and challenging times. Additionally, the ministry provides essential nutritional support to individuals who are sick, ensuring they receive the sustenance they need for recovery, embodying a holistic approach to healthcare and emotional well-being.
Previously recognized as The Gill Hospitality Missionary, this dedication honors the memory of Amelia “Cookie” Elizabeth Lewis.
HIGHLIGHTS FROM THE PAST
Soup for Souls
Soup for Souls started in a small kitchen in 2005 feeding a handful of residents in the community. It is amazing how the program has grown to now feed over 200 families across various communities like Holmesburg, Frankford, North Philadelphia, Kensington, Center City, and West Philadelphia. Soup for Soul's dedication to providing nutritional support, be it hot soup and sandwiches in winter or cold water and salads in summer, shows its commitment to supporting the community's needs. Soup for Souls is committed to promoting and prioritizing health and wellness as foundational principles in everything we do in the community. Along with partnering organizations, focus on nutritional support truly makes a positive impact on families and communities.
Life-Long Educational Advancement for Children
LLEAC initially began by mentoring and supporting youths in the local community. Over time, LLEAC expanded its reach by hosting award assemblies in elementary and middle schools in the Frankford area of Philadelphia. Now, the LLEAC program collaborates with local legislators to organize a year-end promotion day for youth and young adults, ensuring they transition smoothly to the next level of academic success. Throughout its growth, LLEAC remains steadfastly committed to assisting youth in achieving their academic goals and fostering confidence in their educational journey.
Population Served
Our services cater to a wide and inclusive community, targeting individuals of diverse ethnicities, including Black, Hispanic/Latino, and People of Color, as well as the LGBTQIA+ community, ensuring accessibility and a supportive environment for all. We provide specialized assistance for youth up to age 24, pregnant or parenting individuals, veterans, those involved with the juvenile justice system, formerly incarcerated individuals, and those experiencing behavioral health challenges. Furthermore, our support encompasses individuals in recovery from substance use disorder, people who use drugs, those experiencing homelessness or engaging in sex work, and individuals facing poverty or housing insecurity. We are committed to aiding those who have lost a loved one to overdose, undocumented immigrants, and persons with limited English proficiency. Our goal is to create a comprehensive and holistic environment that promotes resilience and empowerment among our diverse beneficiary base, addressing their unique needs and challenges.
As of 2023 DSL has served 4,110 individuals across the Philadelphia area.
Total individuals served annually
In 2024, DSL fosters a nurturing environment where individuals of all ages thrive. From infants to the elderly, we champion diversity and inclusivity at every turn.
Infants (6%), children (23%), teenage youth (6%), older youth (9%), adults (34%), and the elderly (22%) each bring their own richness to the fabric of DSL's community. Together, we cultivate growth, resilience, and opportunity for all, embodying our mission of inclusivity and support.
In our collective, diversity reigns supreme. Women/girls (44%), men/boys (56%), and genderqueer/non-binary individuals (3%) all contribute to our vibrant tapestry. Together, we stand strong, united in our commitment to inclusivity and empowerment.
In our community, diversity is not just acknowledged; it is celebrated as the cornerstone of our strength. From the resilient spirit of our Black or African American members to the vibrant culture of our Latinx community, each race represented - Caucasian, Black or African American, Latinx, Asian or Asian American, and Middle Eastern - contributes to the rich tapestry of our collective identity.
With unwavering unity and respect, we stand together, recognizing that our differences are not barriers but bridges to understanding and empowerment. In embracing the unique stories and experiences of every individual, we forge a path forward where inclusivity reigns supreme and where the power of diversity is harnessed to create a brighter, more equitable future for all.
