Skip To Content

Project snapshot

Hot in the Heights is a soup kitchen dedicated to providing free, nutritious meals to individuals in Washington Heights. Originally operating as a mobile food station, distributing soup directly to those without shelter, the initiative now seeks to expand its impact by transitioning into a weekly food stand on 168th Street. This shift will increase meal capacity, allow for onsite cooking, and ensure compliance with NYC’s Temporary Food Service Establishment regulations. Beyond meal distribution, the project will serve as an educational resource, demonstrating cost-effective, nutritious recipes that community members can replicate at home. Ingredients are carefully selected to maximize nutrition and affordability, with a goal of keeping meals under $1 per serving. To sustain and grow the initiative, fresh produce donations will be sourced from partners like Love Kitchen. This project is a crucial step in establishing a sustainable, accessible food resource for underserved individuals in Washington Heights.

Support Our Grantee Partners

Our grantmaking and programs are made possible by generous philanthropic support from people like you.

By donating to CitizensNYC today, you’ll help us provide microgrants to hundreds of community-led groups and small neighborhood businesses that are working to improve the quality of life in New York City.

Donate Today(this link opens in new window)

Contact Us

The best way to reach the team at CitizensNYC is by email, and please do not hesitate to contact us with questions or ideas. 

If you have a question about our Community Leaders Grants, contact grants@citizensnyc.org.

If you have a question about our Neighborhood Business Grants, contact businessgrants@citizensnyc.org.

You can also find CitizensNYC staff emails on our People page.