About Us
Our Story
In the summer of 1974, a letter to the editor appeared in the Narragansett Times. It told the story of a local woman named Joan who could no longer afford her grocery bills.
The letter struck a chord.
In response, a small group of caring neighbors came together to help and in doing so, they planted the seeds of what would become the Jonnycake Center.
More than five decades later, we remain rooted in that same belief: when neighbors care for one another, extraordinary things happen.
For over 50 years, the Jonnycake Center has quietly and consistently fulfilled its mission, ensuring that our South County neighbors’ basic needs are met with care, dignity, and respect. We nourish families, provide housing support, and create pathways forward so that individuals and families can move beyond crisis, not only surviving, but thriving.
Our Mission and Shared Vision
Our mission is to provide basic needs, resources, and hope to our community members. Together - with our members, volunteers, funders, and community partners - we envision a South County where no one experiences hunger or poverty, and everyone has the opportunity to improve their quality of life and reach their full potential.
Just as in 1974, we believe meeting basic needs is a shared community responsibility. We achieve this vision by working collaboratively, standing shoulder to shoulder, and building a stronger, more compassionate community for generations to come.
Learn more
To learn more about the Center’s impact, fiscal health, and leadership, we invite you to explore
