Services - Beyond Soup
As well as providing food to the needy, Toni’s Kitchen also provides the following services:
Computer Resource Center
A small room next to the kitchen was recently transformed into a computer resource room for our guests. Computer hardware, including four desk top units, printers, and a fax machine, was generously donated by members of the community. Costs associated with internet connections, software, and room renovations were covered by a grant from the Episcopal Diocese of Newark.
The guests have access to the computer room and can receive basic computer training from volunteers in areas ranging from beginning typing to resume preparation, internet access, and performing job and housing searches. Unexpected benefits associated with guests accessing computers and faxes include obtaining critical documents such as birth certificates and graduate equivalency diplomas.
Most significantly, an unexpected benefit has been the phenomenon of “guests helping guests”. Guests with pre-existing skills are volunteering regularly in the Computer Resource room to assist in installing and maintaining equipment and to instruct other guests.
Supermarket Sweeps
Conducted quarterly at Toni’s Kitchen, these fun events provide guests with opportunities to select items from a wide array of surplus nonperishable goods, place these items in a large grocery bag and take the items home with them.
Handicap Accessible Lavatory
A new handicap accessible lavatory and external dining room sink were installed in 2008 which allow our guests to clean up before and after meals.
Prescription Medications
Many of our guests lack the financial resources to purchase medications prescribed for the treatment of their chronic conditions. Guests can access an internet-based pharmaceutical sponsored program to apply for no-cost prescription medications.
Musical Entertainment
Several times a month, volunteer musicians play for the guests during lunch. This includes a regular Karaoke day at which guests are invited to sing along. A group from Temple Ner Tamid in Bloomfield, comprised of five musicians playing guitar, banjo, and piano performs monthly, and local musical groups perform during the holiday season.
Toni’s Living Room
Certain holidays and one Saturday a month, the dining area of Toni’s Kitchen is opened to guests to provide a warm, safe environment with supervised activities. Please check the Events page for dates.
Spokes for Folks
Toni’s Kitchen solicited used bike donations from the community and then made them available to guests, many of whom have no other means of transportation. A total of 36 bikes were distributed. To promote safe use of the bikes, a monthly bike clinic is conducted in which skilled volunteers inspect, repair, and perform routine maintenance.
Health and survival guidance in a “one on one” ministry program for the neediest guests.
Help in preparing income taxes and other forms for government assistance.
“Library on wheels” to provided fiction and non-fiction books and current magazines for guests.