Serving Boston: One Volunteer's Two Decades at the Friday Night Supper Program

When the work week ends in Boston, a bustling church kitchen springs to life to fill a critical gap in the city's social safety net. Founded in 1984 because no other soup kitchens were open on Friday nights, the Friday Night Supper Program serves over 100 hot, nutritious meals to community members each week, alongside essential clothing and toiletry items.

Operating with only three staff members, the program relies heavily on a dedicated corps of volunteers. Among them is Bill Duncan, who first signed up through Boston Cares in 2003. After retiring, he expanded his commitment, spending his entire Friday ensuring the program runs smoothly. From coordinating food deliveries with the nonprofit Spoonfuls to serving coffee and washing dishes, his consistency has made him a backbone of the operation.

In 2023, both Boston Cares and the Friday Night Supper Program nominated him for the Daily Points of Light Award, a national honor recognizing outstanding volunteer service. Despite the recognition, his motivation remains rooted in the community connection and the tangible impact of showing up for his neighbors week after week.