Lonnie’s Soup Kitchen in downtown Brantford, Ontario, has been feeding the less fortunate as its way of giving back to society.

About seven years ago, Lawrence Xurieb, owner of Lonnie’s on Market in Brantford and founder of Lonnie’s Soup Kitchen, witnessed the growing challenges of homelessness and financial hardship in the community. Wanting to make a difference, Xurieb and a team of dedicated volunteers started serving warm meals and offering a welcoming place to visit in downtown Brantford.

Lonnie’s Soup Kitchen started as a pop-up kitchen to provide food, haircuts, and emergency help to those in need. His initiative has continued to grow over the past seven years. Since March 2026, Lonnie’s Soup Kitchen has been running every week on Tuesday, Thursday, and Sunday from 6 to 8 p.m. in front of Lonnie’s on Market on Market Street in Brantford, Ontario.

Lonnie’s Soup Kitchen helps the homeless and also supports families and kids who are struggling and hungry. Lonnie’s on Market was founded by Brian and Kim Xurieb in 2008 and has become a popular spot for a meal, especially in the wee hours of the night. The couple has also been known for their community service and generosity, work that Lawrence Xurieb continues to do. Many people and organizations have appreciated Xurieb’s initiative in the downtown core while also contributing to the cause.

Volunteers have been key in building and maintaining the soup kitchen for years. The initiative is always looking for new people to volunteer their time to help give out hot meals and items of need, like warm mitts, hats, coats, and boots. You can learn more about the initiative through its Facebook page.

Source: Brian Trota, BrantBeacon