Our History
Four Decades of Growth and Impact
Humble Beginnings
El Caldito's journey began at St. Andrews Church, offering a simple yet significant service: a lunch of sandwiches, available one day a week. This initiative was a collaborative effort by volunteer groups from St. Andrews, St. Paul's, Holy Cross, and the Jewish Temple. Each serving day saw about 12 dedicated volunteers catering to 60-80 patrons.
Expanding Our Reach
Service extended to four days a week (Monday-Thursday), with a diversified menu including both sandwiches and soup. Meals served rose to an average of 85 daily, supported by approximately 50 weekly volunteers.
Launch of Food Rescue
The vital Food Rescue program began, initially once a week, quickly expanding to four days due to growing support and need.
Grant Recognition
El Caldito began receiving significant grant support from both city and state sources, recognizing its crucial community service.
Holiday Meals & Food Rescue Growth
Special Thanksgiving and Christmas dinners were introduced. The Food Rescue program significantly expanded as more businesses, farmers, and individuals contributed.
Saturday Carry-Out Introduced
The Saturday carry-out sack lunch program launched, offering a more varied selection including sandwiches, fruit, cookies, beverages, and assorted snacks.
Seven Days a Week
With the help of college students from the International Club and community churches, Gabe Anaya saw the addition of hot lunch service. El Caldito began providing mid-day meals every day of the week, year-round.
First Annual Spaghetti Dinner Fundraiser
The United Military Women of the Southwest hosted the inaugural Spaghetti Dinner fundraiser in the El Caldito dining room, establishing an annual spring event.
200 Meals Daily
The average number of daily lunches served reached a new milestone: 200 meals.
250 Meals Daily
Continuing the trend of growth, daily lunch service averaged 250 meals.
Breakfast Program Begins
Operations Manager Brian Hollinger launched the breakfast program, Monday through Friday.
Adapting During COVID-19
During the pandemic, El Caldito kept its doors open, continuing to serve take-out meals without interruption.
New Website Launch
The new El Caldito website launched, enhancing the organization's digital presence and outreach capabilities.
Continuing Our Mission
El Caldito continues to provide daily meals to those in need, upholding its mission of compassion and care. Your ongoing support enables us to expand our reach and impact, ensuring no one in our community goes hungry.
Navigating Our Present and Future
Current Trends
The demand for meals increases annually, peaking in July during school vacations. End-of-month spikes are common as many on fixed incomes face food shortages.
Ongoing Challenges
Expanding services necessitate more space and equipment upkeep. Volunteer turnover is a challenge, with a notable dip in summer and holiday staffing. Expertise in fundraising, event planning, social service, banking, and food service management is sought for our board of directors. Funding remains vital for operational costs, including utilities and kitchen maintenance.
Support Our Mission
Make a Difference Today
To support El Caldito’s mission, donations are gratefully accepted
Your generosity directly provides warm, nutritious meals and essential support to our community members in need. DONATE NOW.
Not just a soup kitchen; A refuge.
999 W Amador Ave, Las Cruces, NM
PO Box 2833, Las Cruces, NM 88004
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