Who Are We

Our mission is to provide food and necessities to address the effects and impact of poverty.

Those who come for meals all have different stories, whether it’s rebuilding their lives after a natural disaster, experiencing homelessness dealing with deep family issues, or being crippled by addiction. We welcome each person with empathy, compassion, and the desire to help.


Our staff and volunteers truly understand the importance of maintaining the dignity of the individuals that use our services. This is the foundation of a trusting relationship where people are willing to share their story and ask for the help they need to improve their lives and the lives of their families.

1969

FONP is founded by a group of the clergy as a safe place for those working and frequenting the red light district on Chippewa

1970 - 1992

Charles McCullough went from Father Bakers to University of Chicago, prison, and finally to FONP.

“Some people come in just to get off the street, like the old man who’s got a room on Chippewa St. He’s got enough to get by, but not enough to go anywhere.”

– Charlie McCullough

1978

Description should read.. The original Chippewa Street Location, inside the Calumet Building

1983

Move Hudson

1986

“Two things I hate in life are greed and human suffering. I can’t do much about greed, but I can do a lot about human suffering.” 

-Dr. Steven Piver

1994 Medical Clinic Opens Up

Dr. M. Steven Piver, left, and Dr. Bobby Abrams talk with patient Virginia Malky

2009

2009 Partnership with Matt Urban Hope established to provide meals on the East Side.

2014 Lunch Service Resumes

Summer 2014 FONP partners with volunteers from the former Loaves and Fishes Dining Room to begin serving lunch on the two days a week St. Vincent de Paul is closed.

2016

Dr Igoe (left) 20 Years of Service 1998-2018, Nurse Donna (right) 23 Years of Service 1996-2018

2017

2017 Podiatrist celebrate 20 years of service at FONP medical clinic

2019

 

 

 

 

Friends of Night People, Humanity served daily for 50 years.

2022

2022 FONP began a breakfast program. 

We’re constantly seeking like-minded partners to expand on our meal and food pantry services beyond the West Side.