10,000+ full meals
served every year
We're here to help
We tackle Chicago’s food, housing and healthcare crises through an all-inclusive, no questions asked approach that provides easy access to critical resources.
Food for Friends
Care for Friends serves thousands of sit-down, hot meals each year through a three-days-per-week lunch program
Toiletries for Friends
Guests receive personal hygiene kits for basic self-care (soap, shampoo, toothbrush/toothpaste, razor/shave cream)
Healthcare for Friends
Guests of this program receive foot care and evaluations twice per month by a team of volunteers including nurses and podiatric doctors
Connections for Friends
We invite representatives from partner organizations to attend our meals to start creating community connections with our guests
Here's what our community is saying
Whether you’re a volunteer or a guest, our goal is to provide a great experience for everyone who participates in our programs
“You guys help me out so much with my three kids! We're grateful for everything you do!”
Chalmers Family
FRIEND“I have had such a great experience with Care For Friends, thank you for all your hard work! You make eating and grocery shopping so easy on me!”
DePaul Student
FRIEND“With my health issues and two kids you guys help more than you know. I really appreciate you guys and everything you do.”
Ray Graham
FRIENDWe'd love to have you join us!
Meal Service
We are seeking volunteers to prepare and serve a hot meal to unhoused and vulnerable people on Mondays, Thursdays, and Saturdays
Screening Clinic
The second Saturday of every month, non-clincial and clinical volunteers work to create a healthcare home for basic check ups that is not the emergency room (requires orientation)
Foot Care Clinic
This program is essential for our guests who rarely change their shoes and socks, and runs on the third Saturday and final Monday of every month
Personal Care Item Initiative
Join us in dispensing personal hygiene kits for basic self-care (soap, shampoo, toothbrush/toothpaste, razor/shave cream)