I am a caregiver for a dear friend whose Breast cancer has Metastasized, Stage IV, to her bones and elsewhere.I first made contact with the Organic Soup Kitchen via email to Andrea Carroccio, Chief Operating Officer. Andrea was very helpful in providing application and program information in a friendly and professional manner.These organic soups and the multitude of recipes provide life sustaining nutrition to cancer and other seriously ill patients. And they are delicious.With the focus to provide this invaluable service to low income patients as well as others who are recipients of the Organic Soup Kitchen soups serves a noble purpose.The friend that I care for and myself express our gratitude and thanks beyond measure to Andrea, her staff, drivers and volunteers for the life saving work they do. And they do it with love.The Ridley-Tree Cancer Center of Santa Barbara lists the Organic Soup Kitchen as a valuable nutritional resource for patients and care givers to consider.I recommend to anyone who is looking to make a charitable contribution to a local non-profit look no further than the Organic Soup Kitchen. Your contribution will help many people.Thank you Organic Soup Kitchen!Gary VillalbaSanta Barbara, CA
Organic Soup Kitchen has helped me stay healthy and strong for years now, since 2017. I love their soups and their community. Thank you!
I have been connected with Organic Soup Kitchen for about 10 years. They put their heart into all their ingredients and truly care about the community they support. I have volunteered at the free annual Thanksgiving and Christmas meals they provide for the needy and those alone for the holidays. I have helped in the kitchen preparing and brought food to the tables at their events and have seen how much this event means to people and warms their heart. It really is a gift for all involved! Families volunteer to show their children how important it is to help each other and be thankful for all the blessings we have. And I have also been a recipient of their delicious and nutritious meals when I was going through breast cancer treatment as they provide nourishing soup to the breast cancer resource center for pick up. I know during the pandemic they were delivering meals to homes of seniors and those at risk who were homebound. They are truly deserving of being honored as a great non-profit.
I love Organic Soup Kitchen! This gem is an indispensable community resource doing amazing work taking care of Santa Barbara's young and old who are facing health issues or struggling financially. I've volunteered and worked with OSK for a couple years now and I'm constantly inspired and amazed by the tireless dedication Anthony, Drea and the rest of the team have to their clients nutritional and emotional needs. Soups of this quality can not be found anywhere else in Santa Barbara. I eat the soups all the time because I know how incredibly healthy they are. It's hard to find food like this made with 100% clean ingredients. Plus they taste delicious! If you haven't tried their soups or been to their kitchen, I highly recommend visiting the web site or stopping by. They will welcome you with open arms, and you will instantly be hooked on these fantastic soups.
My dentist asked if I was prepared for my post op meals following a tooth extraction. I shared with her that I ordered a variety soup meals from OSK, as I knew this would be the best possible way to nourish my body. She was so excited to hear this as she is currently working towards collaborating with OSK in an effort to assist her patients post op. I told her I’ve had the pleasure of being associated with OSK since 2012. The work they do in this community is beneficial on so many levels. I told her that a collaborative effort with OSK is the absolute best service she can offer her patients.
My nana was sick. She wanted matza ball soup. I paid $18.00 for some. When she opened the container, it looked like slime. YICK. Matza balls are supposed to be fluffy. These were weapons of mass destruction. Nana cried. We all did too. Shame on you, soup kitchen.
Organic Soup Kitchen 12/17/2021
Dear Harry, I'm so sorry you had this experience, had you called us or warmed up the soup first you would have realized that the bone broth was homemade. Homemade broth jells up, you need to warm up the soup first. Please stop by for a complimentary soup of your choice for your Nana.
It takes a lot of heart, soul and hard work to provide nutritious, organic food to so many residents of SB County each week and that is exactly what Anthony, Andrea, Tony and their team do for our community at Organic Soup Kitchen. I have volunteered for OSK over the years helping with fundraisers, prepping vegetables in the kitchen and, alongside my husband, making weekly deliveries to clients. What a privilege it has been to get to know such wonderful people who are so very appreciative. One woman tells me each week, "thank you, thank you, thank you, this soup keeps me alive!" What greater acknowledgment could there be of this tremendous service provided to our community? I am honored to be involved in the great work done by Organic Soup Kitchen.
My entire family and I have been volunteering with OSK for around 8 years. I have watched them work so hard for our community even before the time I became involved. Every donation made to this organization goes directly to our neighbors, families and friends who need the soups we deliver to get the nutrition they need that help's them fight serious and debilitating illnesses. I am currently on the Board and I know 1st hand the sacrifices OSK make to continue to supply the growing demand. I am proud to know my community have such loving and generous people as the Carroccio family looking out for them.
I have volunteered at the Organic soup kitchen for a few months now and I have to say, There are several things I find very impresive. The caliber of ingredients used, how clean and well organized the kitchen is and how nice everyone is. I look forward to seeing Organic Soup Kitchen keep going in the same great direction!
I volunteer at the Organic Soup Kitchen and have witnessed that they use the highest quality, organic ingredients. The kitchen is kept very clean and has excellent sanitary conditions. The soups are very nourishing and absolutely delicious!
Ive worked with the Organic Soup Kitchen for over 10 years, they are exceptional. They work tirelessly to serve the community, they never stop. Any time our city has a need for food, they are at the front lines being of service feeding people. They have worked tirelessly, researching to come up with the most nutritious recipes to make their soups as beneficial as possible to those in need. Their soups taste great to say the least and are a huge godsend and comfort those who struggle to get nutrition in their diets or to be able to get food down. They are always striving to grow so they can provide more food to those who need it.
As we approach our 12 year anniversary, I want to personally thank our entire community for supporting Organic Soup Kitchen through the years. It’s because of the hearts and generosity of this community that we have been able to provide nutritional support to thousands of cancer patients, chronically ill and low income seniors. We are grateful for the overwhelming commitment and contributions that helped us acquire our new kitchen in 2019. Our facility has allowed us to expand our operation and dramatically increase the number of residents we serve. It is our privilege and honor to make and deliver immune strengthening SoupMeals crafted from clean, chemical free produce and medicinal quality herbs and spices. With the tremendous support of the Santa Barbara community behind us and our partners throughout the county, we will continue to be an indispensable resource to anyone in need.
OSK really stepped up to expand delivery of delicious soup during the Covid-19 pandemic to serve not only there existing customers but delivery to the first responders. I was one of the blessed by there perfect soup meals . There were times during the long hours of serving the community as a public health nurse that I would not have made it without OSK nutrient dense soup meals to uplift my spirit at the end of my day.
I’m forever grateful to OSK for caring about us. I love OSK and on behalf the community I thanks you for your service. They truly are the best non profit food service in this town !!!
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OSK team are so compassionate to the individuals in the throes of cancer treatment by delivery of nutrient dense organic soups. On top of weekly service that create community building events from holiday dinners to this summer 5K fun run. I do appreciate them my whole family participated many OSK efforts whenever we can. Keep supporting OSK. They are for the community and serving them deligently for ten years strong !!!
OSK accomplishes a lot with a little. The founders, Anthony and Andrea, recognized the importance of good nutrition in people undergoing cancer treatment. Poor appetite, difficulty swallowing and cancer’s metabolic effects all negatively affect patient nutritional status. Poverty only compounds these problems.
Every week they cook tasty, healthy, nutrient-rich, high calorie soup with all organic, fresh donated produce and have it delivered by their volunteers to the patients’ homes. Each soup meal contains enough for 3 meals and requires only heating. This is a real lifesaver for many of the clients, who simply don’t have the wherewithal to make healthy food.
They know their clients well and bend over backwards to help them. The delivery drivers all have experience working in the kitchen, so they really know the product and share in the vision from start to finish. It’s inspired and inspiring.
When I retired in 2017, I wanted to volunteer for a local nonprofit organization that serves our community in a truly meaningful way.
Because of my interest in food and health, it wasn’t long before I found the perfect match as a delivery driver for Organic Soup Kitchen!
I am in constant awe and so amazed at the positive impact that OSK has made in our community, providing the best quality nutrient dense soups to not only cancer patients but a segment of our underserved community with serious needs.
OSK is a godsend for our community! When I deliver each week, clients often tell me how appreciative they feel that OSK exists. For some, it is a light in a dark tunnel.
I am forever grateful too, that I have a small part in making a big difference in our community.
Anthony and Andrea truly are angels disguised as humans! How can we clone them?
I have been a volunteer driver for the Organic Soup Kitchen since the pandemic started in March 2020. Although I live 30 miles away, and have many choices where to volunteer, I do not think there is any organization more worthy of my time and energy. I now have developed an extraordinary relationship with the people to whom I deliver.The route that used to take me about an hour and a half, now takes at least 2 1/2 due to my uplifting conversations with my clients, sharing stories and enjoying each other like old friends. Weekly, they tell me how the delicious, nutritious soup has transformed their health. It’s an honor to be associated with an organization making such a huge difference in the world. When they answer their door to me and their eyes light up and I get a huge hug, there’s nowhere in the world I would rather donate my time. There has not been one instance that anyone has said that the soup has not been absolutely delicious and so varied week to week. We read the labels together, astounded by the amount of organic vegetables and spices put into the soups. it’s obviously a labor of love.
Doug Grant
Volunteer / Delivery driver
One of the greatest things that has happened to me was being introduced to Andrea and Anthony Carroccio. Witnessing their true love, care and ability to reach out to people in need is extraordinary. When they asked for help, I couldn't say no. I have lost track of the number of years I have been delivering soup to cancer patients and other individuals in need for the Organic Soup Kitchen and cannot imagine my life without the feeling I get from serving others.
“The best way to find yourself is to lose yourself in the service of others.” Mahatma Gandhi
This is a wonderful non-profit! I think it's absolutely wonderful how they work to make healthy food accessible to all, and it tastes delicious too. Truly such a special organization!
Some years ago I was diagnosed with bladder cancer. The treatments lasted several months. Fortunately, my cancer went into remission and I gained invaluable first hand knowledge of the fears and physical problems cancer patients have to deal with. I wish I knew then of the Organic Soup Kitchen's program of fighting cancer with their delicious, nutrient-dense, plant based soups. (And their volunteers deliver the soups free of charge to people who can't come to them.) This is an incredibly valuable program. I just wish it could extend beyond this community to serve more people in similar straits.
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After years of following, attending events, and donating to Organic Soup Kitchen with my wife, I received the compliment of being asked to join the foundation's Board of Directors. In this capacity I have intimate knowledge of the work the organization performs and the selfless dedication and attention to detail of the founders, Anthony Carroccio and Andrea Slaby. Rising before the sun comes up each day and working into the evening they prepare delicious nutrient rich soups, painstakingly researched and made with only the most natural organic ingredients. Supported by donations, OSK's mission, based on the conviction that "No person, regardless of financial status, shall have to compromise the food they feed themselves or their family," is basic and necessary to the health and welfare of those they serve, including but not limited to, financially at risk families, isolated individuals and patients valiantly fighting the ravages of cancer. OSK has also developed a highly successful program to deliver their nutrient rich food to cancer patients both at home and in community institutions. To accomplish all this OSK has inspired a cadre of dedicated volunteers, many of whom have found new purpose in their own lives by serving others. In this way, the OKS formula benefits everyone involved.
OSK exudes healing. I have been volunteering in the kitchen packaging their nutrient dense soup. As a previous caregiver to my now healed cancer free husband, it has allowed me to heal too. We are also monthly donors. This non profit is one to be followed, involved with and given the opportunity to serve our community with your donation.
I like the OSK focus on supporting people dealing with cancer and degenerative diseases in the community. The focus on this under served population is much needed. The care taken to create their nutrient dense soups is admirable. I’m proud to support their work.
I've been helping OSK with their data structures and ongoing architecture. I have to keep in mind their growth because I have tried the soup and I know that people love and depend on it. I don't know anywhere else that people can get such nutrient-rich soups, especially for those that can't get such nutrients any other way.
As a couple we have been delivering soup to clients for two years.
Handing out the best possible medicine "real health food" is an honor.
John does the driving and sorting the soup and I meet and greet the clients. I enjoy talking to the clients to see how their week has been going and asking them what their favorite soup has been. Sometimes they have challenges and sometimes it is good news from their medical team.
The people we meet have become friends. Each week we are greeted by the soup team in the kitchen with smiles and thanks, but they are the hard workers who prepare and pack the food and keep track of all of us which is no easy task. We are happy to volunteer for such great cause and encourage others to volunteer and enjoy this great experience.
Joan and John Calder
I am a proud member of the OSK board, and a long time personal friend to the Carroccio family, whom I salute for their hard work, generosity and passion to be of service to the greater good of all... I know this is truly a wonderful organization founded in love, health, commitment to excellence and deep sense of community service.
The constant fine tuning, research and upgrades to their outreach community services, their top quality products, packaging and management is astounding. My contribution to OSK as a Holistic Health Coach is sharing my expertise and to make sure the Carroccio household is happy and healthy themselves, as they are working 24 hours, 7 days a week, 365 days a year.
Every year OSK support my children's educational programs by showing up at the class rooms sharing about community service outreach to the less fortune and health compromised population. They offer soup to their events, food prep and bake pizza with the kids and engage them in making gratitude jars for the elders for the holidays - all which has made a HUGE difference in our children's awareness about caring and sharing. Thank YOU!
In my personal health practice I service many cancer patients, to whom I'm thrilled to be able to introduce to OSK healing soup's delivery service. They are all so grateful and excited to be getting delicious soups and treats to their door steps. Making their life just a little easier...
I've been to many of their special events and fund raisers, that are always FUN, full of food and happy, helpful and thankful people. Yet it always amazes me how much they do, and how many people they care for, and what a BIG difference they make in so many peoples lives... spite all the challenges to get sufficient financial support needed to keep production going, to expand and optimize the life giving services of ORGANIC SOUP KITCHEN. Amazing!
Thank you for including me on this soulful journey, and for being a BLESSING in my life.
I LOVE YOU guys! Anthony, Andrea, Tony and all your amazing crew of volunteers
I came to know the crew at Organic Soup Kitchen through a friend several years ago who had begun volunteering and really just couldn't shut up about it. I say that with love as well as rolling eyes. I met Andrea socially first and, like all excellent non-profit leaders, she immediately welcomed me to come down to the kitchen.
My professional background is in journalism and photography and I have enjoyed working for non-profits with missions close to my heart for many years. Doing work for non-profits is deeply worthwhile because most often they're working on a shoestring budget and a skeleton crew of staff. That, sometimes, can make for hurried interactions and not necessarily make a person feel terribly welcome or wanted.
Organic Soup Kitchen is the absolute exception to that experience. Andrea meets everyone with a radiant smile and open arms. I can't say enough about her warmth and sincerity. Andrea and Anthony genuinely care about their clients, their volunteers, their staff, and the entire community.
Within the past few years, I've dealt with some rather unpleasant health problems. Side effects from medications destroyed my teeth resulting in surgeries, pain, and difficulties eating. On top of that, I've had some rather pronounced gastrointestinal issues (which, for your benefit, I won't describe). Let's just say it was a bad time. In true form, Andrea added me to the soup delivery list.
I'm mildly embarrassed to say that I was skeptical when that first batch of soup arrived in my kitchen. I'll admit I had a cynical view of veganism even though I have a deep love of vegetables. I think it's possible I had only been exposed to bland, overcooked monstrosities masquerading as healthy food options.
I couldn't have been more wrong. Let me say it louder for the people in the back. I was dead wrong. Every single Organic Soup Kitchen delivery has been a delight. They're invariably flavorful. They smell and taste like food we harvested straight from our garden when I was a child. Even my veggie phobic spouse digs into the soups with relish.
Organic Soup Kitchen soups are as genuine and life-affirming as the people who make them. With all the heartbreak and strife in the world right now, is there any higher praise? I'm honored to be able to work with their team and support their mission.
I have known Andrea and Anthony for many years and have always admired their dedication and love for this special community through their hard work. However, when a dear friend of mine discovered that she had breast cancer, that is when I really found out what the OSK does. Andrea immediately signed me up so I could deliver their amazing soup to my friend during her treatment. She loved it and over the past 6 months, she has been extremely grateful to have such nourishing, healthy and delicious soup on hand....especially after her chemo sessions. I am grateful for this organization and for what it represents and for people like Andrea, Anthony and Tony who have committed their lives to helping other people - one spoonful at a time!!!
I have been delivering super nutritious organic soup to cancer patients for about 6 months. The Organic Soup Kitchen does a great job supplying hope and nourishment to the cancer community in and around Santa Barbara. I lost my father to cancer when he was 51 years old and I was just graduating college. When I turned 51 last year, I made it a goal to honor my father's hard fought battle with cancer by volunteering for something. I heard a presentation about the Organic Soup Kitchen by chance and knew I had to become a part of this special organization. The Organic Soup Kitchen is filled with kind, compassionate people. I am happy to be a part of their service to the community and look forward to increasing my participation in the future.
I've been volunteering at the OSK for 5 years now, and every time find a group if people reaching out to the less fortunate in our community. From 5:00 am on the effort to provide soup to cancer patents goes on, every day. It's a privalage to be a part of this each year.
As a donor and a volunteer with the OSK, there are so many opportunities to see the wonderful work that they are doing for the SB community!
By helping out with Tuesday soup deliveries to cancer patients and assisting in serving lunches at a local community center, it is easy to see the difference that they are making in the lives of so many in SB.
I’ve been volunteering for OSK for a few years now and I love it. I get to deliver soup to those who need it the most. I feel like this volunteering opportunity has allowed me to grow in many ways. I love the human connections I’ve made.
Andrea is so smart, humble and caring!!!! ❤️
Organic Plant based Nutrient Dense Food made and served with love is the best medicine.
I am a donor and a volunteer. Thanking everyone at Organic Soup Kitchen for their love and
support of those we serve and those of us who volunteer and donate. What a great way to give back, serve and make health miracles happen. Plant based serves the health of our earth
not only the health of those who we feed. Again thank you!
I have been harvesting fresh fruit from yards and commercial sites for 10 years
A number of people told me about the great work OSK does in our community
I introduced myself to both Anthony and Andrea and they immediately respond to my offer to bring them fresh produce
Over the years I harvest less and now deliver fresh soup and produce to seniors and cancer patients
The overwhelming gratitude of the recipients is equal to the dedication and selflessness of this organization
The people at OSK are my heroes and our community is fortunate to have them
Thank you
I have been very proudly involved with Organic Soup Kitchen since day one! This team has a motor like no other - they do more with less...every day. They bring their positive energy, and warm, compassionate hearts to serve those in the community who need it the most. They deliver delicious soups that sustain, protect, and heal. Perhaps the most exciting thing is - they are just getting started! Donate and help this organization reach new levels of impact!
I have been a volunteer with the OSK for several years and have seen them grow in our community. The service they provide, the lives they touch, and their standing in our community are are unmatched by any local NFP. I credit this with the loving hearts, the tenacity, and the true altruism of their founders, Anthony and Andrea. Two more amazing people you will never meet. Please participate, donate, or just share accolades. They deserve it!
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I have worked with the OSC for more than a year now. I have supplied surplus greens grown at the farm I help manage, and this last memorial day, I manned the grilling station and cooked hundreds of servings of chicken for poor and homeless vets. I have had lunch with local homeless to hear their stories, and helped chop veggies for later cooking. The OSC provides amazing food for the local needy (and anyone else) in a way that is not degrading, embarrassing, or belittling. Anthony and Andrea are truly driven to provide their best for all their clients and our community. Any experience with the OSC, either as customer, supplier, or helper, would leave one feeling satisfied, fulfilled, and valued.
Organic Soup Kitchen’s delivery was a true miracle as I was
not be able to eat, only drink liquids for months. They delivered soup weekly to me for 6 months, and now that I am healed, I am going to give back to them 10 fold.
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The Organic Soup Kitchen is a Santa Barbara treasure. Co-operating with other social service agencies the Soup Kitchen’s primary focus is to provide nutritious food to needy seniors and low-income veterans. However, a specialty of the kitchen, are their national holiday celebration parties. Held at the Veteran’s Center and open to the general public, these parties provide an opportunity for clients and others to savor a truly “community happening.” Raising the spirits of all, attendees enjoy music, delicious food, entertainment and festive decorations. In the words of one client, “Hooray for the Kitchen! No more lonely holidays for me.”
Andrea Carroccio was the first person to introduce us to OSK. She did it through true and humble service (in our yoga sessions). Her contagious and positive attitude drew us to this incomparable community service and non-profit organization.
OSK staff and volunteers have devoted their life to helping and serving others. Not only have they fed and nurtured patients with cancer, but the needy. Their philanthropic mission has exceeded charitable goals by undertaking such an altruistic and transparent endeavor.
Floyd and I have been blessed by meeting her husband Anthony, son Tony and all the wonderful volunteers who unconditionally serve others.
We love and support OSK!!!
After 5 years of chemo and chemo side effects, including loss of appetite and weight loss, I was in dire need of nourishment. I heard about your delivery service of nutrient-dense organic soups to cancer patients... there’s not a better medicine imaginable.
I have known and supported the OSK team for many years. I have watched them grow into the incredible nonprofit they are today. They are a team of dedicated, kind, and caring individuals who make a huge difference in the lives of those they support. I feel really good knowing that the donations I make to OSK go directly to their recipients in the form of nourishing nutrient dense food and also supportive services. This is an organization that is all heart and their soups are most definitely made with love.
Organic Soup Kitchen is a wonderful organization, committed to serving wholesome, organic food to those who need it most, from seniors to veterans to the homeless. It is a true honor to be involved. I wholeheartedly support and endorse the Organic Soup Kitchen.
A brilliant and thoughtful way to give back to the community. The OSK really helps folks in need with a grass roots approach. Cancer runs in my family, the OSK would have been a very welcome hand in our time of need. I’ve been a fan/supporter for years and will continue to do so!
Well done OSK!
I've seen Organic Soup Kitchen in action - making soup for weekly clients, serving community meals, feeding veterans, running fundraisers, and so much more. They are constantly moving, but constantly serving. They are great to their volunteers and clients. I recommend becoming involved with them as they truly make you feel part of a COMMUNITY!
I love this program. Nothing has helped me more to stay in remission from breast cancer. the soups are delicious, healthy, and satisfying. And the chia pudding makes a delicious, delectable dessert. Couldn't do without them!
Organic soup kitchen had kept me healthy .
I had surgery and had trouble eating (chewing)and keeping food down.
Organic soup is full of veggies and organic ingredients . The soup still helps me get my veggies and vitamins because I continue to have chewing and digestion priblems.
Organic soup for me is a God send.
Thank you for all that you do .
As a health care provider in the Santa Barbara community, I am thrilled to partner with OSK!!
They provide an underserved population with nutritional dense organic soups. Often times, cancer patients are encouraged to eat/drink packaged processed, sugar laden foods, which only perpetuates the vicious battle of cancer. As a doctor, I am keenly aware that cancer cells thrive in the presence of sugar. Organic Soup Kitchen delivers vegan, organic, gluten free soups full of nutrients that these patients desperately need to heal. This is an extremely valuable and unique service. I highly recommend supporting their endeavors and programs.
People don't get any better then Anthony, Tony and Drea! Everything they do comes from the heart and they TRULY make a difference. They are always the first to help me out with an event by donating some snacks and drinks and willing to do more. Completely selfless, totally passionate and I will continue to do anything and everything I can to support them. The Organic Soup Kitchen is so very worthy of a "Top-Rated" title. -Beth Eisele
To tell the whole story about the Organic Soup Kitchen would take a few days. It starts with 2 of the biggest hearts the world has seen, Anthony and Andrea Carroccio. These 2 and the now the many others who assist give back to the Santa Barbara Community in ways that make all feel love in a world that needs so much more. During the Holidays and through out the year, they spend their time taking care of the ones who need a hand, hug, smile, and a hot meal the most. They reach out so others can get a helping hand and improve their lives. Its a pure joy to be in their presence, the positive energy is a blessing for all.
Denis
For years I have enjoyed volunteering for Organic Soup Kitchen. I have observed culinary excellence in Ingredient selection, storage, preparation and presentation surpassing what I would expect of a high end restaurant.
This year I became a client on occasion. I needed fresh wholesome meals, due to the effects of chronic illness, side effects and expense of medications the simplest of tasks had become problematic. I discovered that OSK not only provides great food but also offers the opportunity for isolated people to enjoy a sense of community and purpose. Breaking bread together heals the soul.
Of all the possibilities of non-profits I could be involved in I am proud to continue to support OSK and all their great work.
What a wonderful job they do in the community, changing and improving lives daily using the power of food!
Thank you Organic Soup Kitchen for all you do!
This is an amazing team of people who absolutely love what they are doing! The whole process of collecting the igredients to preparing and delivering the meals is a soulful efficient collective effort! The organic soup kitchen is an impeccable example of a non profit that operates from the heart, involves community, delivers quality and participates in nourishing cancer patients.
About twenty years ago, we were invited to Thanksgiving dinner at Anthony Carraccio's home. We didn't know him, but he made us very welcome, with tons of food that he had cooked. It was a gathering of various people who didn't have a place to go on this family oriented holiday. Our friendship grew over the years, and Anthony began making delicious organic soup for homeless or just people in need. Soon after he founded a non-profit to feed more and more people. That is his labor of love, to feed people. And not just any food, but the highest quality, organic vegetables. In his own words, "everybody deserves to have good food." Soon we were all participating in the first Thanksgivings at the Veteran's Center in Santa Barbara, where hundreds of people were volunteering to help prepare and serve. There were Christmas meals, Easter meals and the crows grew year after year. The most amazing thing about it all–– more than the quality of the food, more than the stellar entertainment at these community meals, more than the gifts and vital necessities given–– was the true communal meal itself. At times it brought me to tears to see the volunteers (who treated the "guests" like real guests) sit down and eat their own meal, right along side a minority family, or aging Veteran or homeless, handicapped person. Everyone is waited on, catered to, "served" in the true sense of the word. Elected officials from local, state and national level were servers as well as guests. This is the true meaning of community! And the Organic Soup Kitchen is the only example of such unconditional love, that I have ever known.
Organic Soup Kitchen has been an asset to the Santa Barbara Community for the last 8 years. They serve nutrient-dense organic soups to cancer patients and seniors. Every Holiday they open up their doors to the public and serve a full feast to the community. My family has volunteered with them for the past three years, both delivering soup to cancer patients and seniors as well as at their joyous feasts. Organic Soup Kitchen serves not only the body, but also the mind and spirit in a respectful, supportive and loving way. I cannot say enough wonderful things about the Organic Soup Kitchen!
I first heard about Organic Soup Kitchen three years ago while I was living in Germany. I followed OSK on Facebook and watched their nonprofit evolve from halfway around the world. Now back in Santa Barbara, I've gotten to know both Anthony and Andrea. Their dedication to seniors and veterans is unparalleled. Preparing nutrious organic food from the heart for the soul is a powerful way to connect community. Their work is vital and they do it all with joy and generosity of spirit. They are living angels.
The Organic Soup Kitchen is more than a non profit organization in my eyes. In every container of soup that we make and in every meal that we serve there is a little bit of ourselves, which is our love for what we do. I, as a volunteer look forward every morning to going to the kitchen and working hard to enrich the lives of our local veterans and our patients. We at the kitchen have generous hearts and work hard until the last person is fed, which requires over 12 hour days sometimes. The vision and direction of Anthony, Andrea, and Tony we as volunteers are a well oiled machine and capable of performing any task. I've been lucky enough to witness events that we have catered and with the direction of these three feeding hundreds of peoples not what I would say easy, but extremely manageable. By watching them it has helped me in my career and directing people with compassion instead of a strong arm approach. I started out with washing dishes at the kitchen, but now I cook beside these three and make soup and nothing makes me more happy than seeing the smiles on our patients faces when I deliver. The Organic Soup Kitchen has brought so much joy into my life, by spending time with family and friends for a good. I can't imagine not doing what I can to support this organization in some way, because of the smiles that they bring to me and all the lives that they touch in in Santa Barbara on a daily basis. These are two of my favorite moments at the kitchen, the first one was the first time I ever volunteered at the kitchen and the second is the joy that is brought to all the volunteers by Anthony and Andrea
One of the wealthiest places in America have homeless people. Every day homeless people go HUNGRY in Santa Barbara.
Organic Soup Kitchen works HARD to provide food for the elderly and the homeless. The team puts in endless hours for the mentally ill, drug addicts and alcoholics that have nothing to eat because of their sad conditions life has given them.
Not only are they feeding the homeless, they are feeding them healthy organic food which is expensive. They care what goes into the bodies of the less fortunate people. Organic Soup Kitchen keeps them healthy. The opportunity to live another day.
We can go to the store and buy our fruits and vegetables but the homeless can't.
This is not a high profile, fashionable non profit, like the performing arts. This is an area where most people don't want to be associated , so they stay away from help feeding the homeless.
Organic Soup Kitchen braves the streets to feed the hungry people in our town. They are the hardest working group of people I know. Unconditional love for the homeless.
I volunteered one Thanksgiving washing dishes for the Organic Soup Kitchen and had such a fulfilling time giving back that year. All of the familiar faces around the Veteran's Building (volunteers, staff, locals) - it was a space filled with love and good food. The following year I was lucky enough to DJ during dinner for the soup kitchen and bring dancers to perform as well. I took a bunch of song requests for one homeless man who loved great music - he even wanted the "Mashed Potato" song - so much fun! Andrea and Anthony are caring people who are just doing what they weren't meant to do and they radiate positivity in the community and have been great to work with. I always jump at the chance to volunteer for the OSK!! Hope to see it's services continue to flourish for years to come.
I have been a part of OSK since its inception many years ago. I will never forget volunteering at their first Thanksgiving. At that time they were a small group of people wanting to be of service and to give back to our local community to the people that needed it the most, oir veterans and our homeless. Many times which are one in the same.
Over the years I have volunteered when I could. What they have accomplished is nothing short of a miracle. Not only do they prepare the best holiday meals in town, they created healthly vegan soups which they deliver to the elderly and those stricken with cancer.
As far as I'm concerned they are number 1. Anthony, Andrea, and Tony Carroccio had huge dreams and visions. I'd say they have succeeded 1000%.
I'm proud to call them my friends.
Caren Abdela
My company has been involved with Organic Soup Kitchen in donating product for their free meals to the public as well as volunteering during their Thanksgiving and Christmas dinners. One of the reasons we enjoy working with them is because we have seen first hand what an amazing contribution they give to the community, not only do they provide a nutritious organic home cooked meal but they provide an environment of friendship and support that brings smiles to so many faces and warmth to peoples hearts, not only adults but children and the elderly. The volunteers are getting just as much from helping as the attendees are getting. It is a priceless gift to all and one that parents can share with their children as an example of kindness and gratitude and thoughtfulness in helping the less fortunate. Andrea and Anthony and their staff are amazing!
Hello Hello,
i would like to thank Anthony and Andrea for all they are doing for the hungry ,elderly and the sick in Sta Barbara. Always making sure to serve as many as 300 meals of ORGANIC food a day!
Quite an extraordinary achievement which demonstrates the true love and respect they have for all and all year around.They also organise deliveries to those who cannot make it to Soup Kitchen. Their selflessness is an exemple to all. Hoe they get sufficient back up to keep Soup Kitchen up and running.
We have seen the gratitude on the faces of women who live on the street for the super healthy, wonderfully prepared meals served up by the Organic Soup Kitchen. Besides receiving the food, the OSK offers a human connection, support, and complete acceptance of the people they serve. Without the generosity and hard work of the OSK, some of these people would have little or nothing to eat. OSK demonstrates humanity at its best.
The owners/founders of this non profit put heart and soul I to every bite of food! They are amazing cooks and have fed so many with so mich love in this community, their tenacity and vision are also note worthy!
Knowing the founders/owners on a very personal level, I know the level of deep commitment and care with which they run OSK. They truly care about people and making a difference in the community. They have fun with what they do and are innovative with recipes and ways that they can give back to others. I've definitely had fun serving next to them and look forward to doing more in the future. Thanks Anthony, Andrea and Tony!
Love the soup and how much care they put into maximizing the nutrient value for everyone who receives it.
I'm one of their volunteer drivers. I deliver soup to 7 households. Most have cancer - I see how much the soup and my visits mean to them. What a wonderful organization. Love the
whole organization from the top on down to all the volunteers.
The organic soup kitchen has over the years done so much for the community. For the low income to cancer patient to veterans' . A highly valuable nonprofit.
Anthony and Andrea are some of the most dedicated people I know who strive to support the most vulnerable in our community. Organic Soup Kitchen is an outstanding service organization and is a pillar of this community. I have volunteered with them and have loved their energy and devotion. They are committed to bringing real change for those that they are serving.
Aparna Sherman
Private Chef and Restaurant Owner
I have gotten to know Organic Soup Kitchen for the past five years. Anthony and Andrea Have worked very hard to service the community and build this organization. They have been very adaptive to the community needs in feeding people that need assistance. They give a lot and asked for little. I urge you to support them in whatever means you would be able to.
Not only does OSK feed those less fortunate in our community. They also supply nutritional soups to seniors, cancer patients among others. Their warm, family style business brings volunteers from all walks of life together.
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It's always a good feeling to help feed people, and many volunteers like me, walk away feeling much better. Not only is the food absolutely delicious and organic, but Anthony & Andrea treat all all folks they feed and work with like family. There's no feeling of business here. It's all healthy food, lovely people, and the recipients are genuinely grateful for the setting.
"Thanks" to A & A" for what and how you serve it up.
FD in SB
Toad&Co, an outdoor apparel company based in Santa Barbara, regularly volunteers with the Organic Soup Kitchen. Like the Organic Soup Kitchen, Toad&Co is committed to being a socially and environmentally responsible company. They partner with national organizations like 1% for the Planet and the Conservation Alliance, and you'll always find Toads volunteering throughout Santa Barbara County. It's all part of their social mission to live well, do good and keep good company. The Organic Soup Kitchen is a particular favorite for Team Toad. Volunteers get out of the office, hone their cooking chops and interact with community members. It's a rewarding experience for everyone, and one that keeps the Organic Soup Kitchen filled with Toads!
I first experienced Organic Soup Kitchen during a Thanksgiving Day celebration at the Veterans Memorial Hall. A neighbor of mine is a veteran who spends his Thanksgiving alone. I had heard about OSK and thought it would be wonderful to bring him. I was so moved by the experience, it was amazing, the food was so nourishing, and the sense of community was wonderful. I have been fortunate to witness the magic from both sides, as they help more and more of our community. Organic Soup Kitchen is an absolute blessing. I am constantly impressed by how hard they work and all that they accomplish and feel very fortunate to know them!
Organic Soup Kitchen is a excellent non profit organization. Heart and soul goes into every healthy meal they prepare for veterans, homeless, seniors and more. They continue to serve the Santa Barbara community, always finding ways ways to help anyone in need. Nobody is turned away, and everyone is treated equally. Thanksgiving, Christmas and Easter holidays are always a full house, and the food is beautiful, delicious and nutrient dense. The staff works long and hard and always more than expected, just to help others less fortunate. It is a great organization to be a part of, to contribute to and to have in our community!
Organic Soup Kitchen, OSK, not only provides nutrient dense organic food to people who lack access to reliable life saving nutrition, OSK also ensures that each client is greeted respectfully by volunteers with a sincere interest in improving their clients. Sometimes that means connecting clients with community resources. One Memorial Day it meant paying attention to the quiet people. A volunteer noticed a Veteran who just stared down at her food, seemingly lost in time. Volunteers are encouraged to sit down with people who seem to be in distress. In the Veteran's case, she came from a long line of volunteers to the US Military. The last member of her birth family had passed away, she was now, truly alone. The volunteer asked if she would like a cup of coffee and a piece of pie. Together the Veteran and Volunteer shared coffee and talked. The volunteer provided community resource guides and asked if the Veteran would consider other OSK programs such as restorative Yoga for PTSD or perhaps helping with the next Holiday Meal. The Veteran expressed interest. OSK changes lives one meal at a time by providing nutrition and sincere connections.
By far the best company I know. Anthony and Andrea are the kindest, most generous and most productive people I know. They work so hard to provide amazing food for the community!
I'm a big fan of OSK. They bring a level of honor, respect, dignity and quality to serving the hungry that I've never seen before. I've helped prep food for the holiday meals, served and am a monthly donor too. Oh and the scripts program at Participating grocery stores is an easy way to contribute every time you shop.
A while back I worked for the Transition House to assist homeless people & families, & all tho' receiving donations were very nice, the food donations mainly consisted of sugary, overprocessed foods which truly deplete energy & cause illness.
I was so thrilled when The Organic Soup Kitchen arose & brought awareness that all people are worthy of healthy nutritious meals despite their circumstances. In fact, people in crisis most definitely need healthy food to help them empoower themselves to move forward in a postive & productive way.
I am so grateful for the Organic Soup for all they do & being a wonderful role model that we are all in this together & that our well being matters!
Organic Soup Kitchen evolves and grows every year to best meet the needs of the community. They are trend setters in public service by providing healthy, nutritious food as preventive care to those in need. This local non-profit should be a model for other communities to follow. The core members remain hands-on with the daily operations and outreach. Way to go OSK!
My experience with the incredible Organic Soup Kitchen has been A+. i have volunteered several times and each experience was nothing but wonderful. The staff are so pleasant, so kind and helpful but most of all, they *really* care about the importance of feeding our veterans, the elderly and the community at large GOOD, nutritious, absolutely mouth watering delicious food. I love to work with them. I love the soup. The Garbonzo Bean Red Pepper Patties are one of my favorites, but I love ALL the yummy soups. I love the people who make up OSK. They are for sure a Santa Barbara treasure. I wish every non-profit was like OSK. They make this world a much better place.
Been following the Organic Soup Kitchen for years. Creating fresh, nutritious food for people who need a helping hand, and recognizing that dignity comes in many forms-with the Organic Soup Kitchen, it was cooking healthy meals with great ingredients, showing all the people they serve that deserved the best too.
This is a marvelous organization that helps the Santa Barbara community and beyond. Aside from feeding the homeless and hungry, they have helped several friends of mine who were incapacitated for a period of time and could not shop for food. Their soups are luscious and healthy and they have delivered to those seriously ill folks who will benefit from the high quality of their food. They deserve our support.
This charity was formed by wonderful people with a unique idea who have dedicated their lives to giving back in a major way! They have the biggest hearts for helping others get fulfilled in mind, body and spirit.
From humble beginnings OSK has grown to be the finest example of true community hospitality. Anthony. Andrea. Tony and the other dedicated workers and volunteers have taken the simple idea of relationship and fellowship developing over healthy meals and made it a reality. There is no other food provider that has such soul. Thank you OSK!
They are just a great organization to work with. They use The Veterans Memorial Building a couple times a year for BIG events and they run them awesomely. On Wednesdays they cook and feed Veterans, here at the building, for FREE. They all love the yummy food Tony cooks up for them. All in all I have a ton of respect for such a great organization.
Organic Soup Kitchen (OSK) is an absolutely amazing not for profit organization in Santa Barbara. My practice has been community partners with them for a couple of years, holding fund raisers and volunteering during the holiday season. The passion and dedication is to local, organic, high-quality food is inspiring!Thank you, OSK, for your loving service to the under served of Santa Barbara! - Dr. Elizabeth Wisniewski
Organic Soup Kitchen far exceeds all of our expectations. For of the love of food, people, our community and the planet. Kindness, generosity, a welcoming presence and awesome food totally rock every time!
Organic Soup Kitchen provides healthy food for so many populations in our community. What I love most about their mission is that they create community around food. They encourage people to volunteer and create spaces and opportunities to connect with volunteers but also the people we serve. Many of the volunteers are friends and deeply connected with the people that are served. It is this desire to connect in community around healthy food while serving that is most empowering. This is not about volunteers doing good, this is about building connections through people of all walks of life through healthy food. It is a noble mission.
What a wonderful group of people ! Feeding seniors , veterans, cancer patients others in need in our community on a weekly basis with super healthy and delicious soups.
I fell in love with Organic Soup Kitchen about 4 years ago. I originally met them thru the amazing Thanksgiving Dinner they provide every year for anyone in our community who has no where else to go. Not only do they provide a beautiful homemade traditional Thanksgiving dinner but they serve the meal to every individual by hand and provided gifts and entertainment and really connected to each and every person. Their mission to provide healing organic soups and meals the rest of the year to anyone who struggled to feed themselves really touched me. As I got to know them and get involved I really realized everything they do comes from a place of pure compassion for the needy in our area.
I'm very proud to support them in every way I can. I give them a monthly donation as well as volunteer hours supporting whatever project we have to work on. Its the very least I can do to help them help so many people who need and desire genuine compassion and a healthy meal.
This is an amazing non-profit that really makes a difference in the community! As a volunteer I saw the appreciation of everyone that benefitted from their free meals/camaraderie during the holidays. Not only did the recipients benefit but so did the volunteers. It brings back the true meaning of the holidays and bridges the gap between the fortunate and the less fortunate. I was blessed to be a part and help out with all the good work this valuable non-profit is doing. The community would not be the same without them.
Andrea has been providing her delicious organic soup to my mother who is elderly and has difficulty leaving the house. Andrea and her volunteers deliver soup to my mom's house each week -- and sometimes they bring beautiful produce or flowers that are surplus from the Farmer's Market. The soups are delicious and made with love and care, nourishing the spirit as well as the body. Thank you, Andrea and team for all you are doing to foster the health and security of our most vulnerable citizens.
Organic, tasty and healthy for everyone. It is an honor to be a part of the OSK Team helping the community. May we continue to be successful and bring healing to those in need.
I've been a volunteer for Organic Soup Kitchen for many years. I can tell you from the front line, this organization is fabulous !! I'm really proud of Anthony & Andrea for all they do and mostly "how they do it". Humble folks doing great work for the community -AND- the food is better then restaurants!!!
Anthony & Andrea put their heart & soul into this business as well as all the food that the make. So many benefit from their hard work. They are a real asset to the community. Nell Foster
The only the thing better than soup served by the Organic Soup Kitchen, is the love they serve it with. Tony, Andrea, and Anthony, are wonderful to work with. They go beyond providing nourishment for the body. They provide smiles and warmth to those serve as well! I highly recommend interacting with OSK whenever possible.
Keith
Santa Barbara
This is an excellent organization. Virtually every form of support, volunteer, in-kind exchange and donation, is used immediately to fill an immediate need. Feeding Veterans in particular & homeless in general are primary customers. Virtually no one is turned back. Organic Soup Kitchen, OSK, serves people across all of our economic and social strata. The only qualification is answering the question, would you like to eat, with Yes.
Growing up my dad was often out of work and we were hungry. We picked field greens and stir-fried them. People would come by with food, it was deeply appreciated.
When my daughter was growing up we supported Salvation Army Kitchen. When we shopped for our holiday meals we picked up a duplicate of each item, same brand and quality. The second helping was for those who would not be fed otherwise. We bagged the items splitting the duplicates between those in need and our home. I felt that doing beats lecturing. She continues to be a volunteer in each community she lives in.