On Troost Avenue—long recognized as Kansas City’s dividing line—Thelma’s Kitchen is working to flip the narrative. Rooted in the legacy of Thelma and her husband, Father Alexii, the café carries forward a spirit of radical hospitality that began over 30 years ago when their table was always open to hungry neighbors. What started as simple acts of mercy has grown into a social enterprise café and catering venture operated by Reconciliation Services.
At Thelma’s Kitchen, every plate served and every catering order fuels more than just a good meal—it helps fund programs like mental health counseling, housing assistance, and ID recovery. But perhaps even more powerful is the way food itself becomes a bridge. When people gather at the same table, strangers become neighbors, stereotypes fade, and dignity is restored.
Today, Thelma’s Kitchen is a place where people eat well, do good, and experience the
transformative power of connection. Chief Impact Officer Jodi Mathews shares more about how food opens doors to reconciliation.
Q: Can you share the story behind Thelma’s Kitchen?
A: Thelma’s Kitchen was born from Thelma’s legacy of hospitality. She and Father Alexii began their outreach by feeding neighbors in need, and we wanted to continue that spirit on Troost. Every meal or catering order supports vital programs at Reconciliation Services. It’s more than a café—it’s a social venture where neighbors gather, eat well, and build community together.
Q: How does food open the door to reconciliation?
A: Sharing a meal has a way of breaking down barriers. Titles and stereotypes fade when people sit at the same table. Proximity matters—being close to those we may see as “other” opens the door to empathy and understanding. In a divided city, food becomes an antidote to isolation and a catalyst for reconciliation.
Q: Can you share a story of impact?
A: One woman came in with a pay-it-forward token for lunch. She returned, brought a friend, and eventually, we invited her to volunteer. She was deeply moved, saying she never thought anyone saw her as someone with “something to offer.” Today, she’s a regular volunteer. That single meal grew into a place of belonging and dignity.
Q: How do you ensure every guest feels valued?
A: Dignity is at the heart of everything we do. Whether someone pays $1 or $15, they receive the same quality and care. By serving fresh, healthy, locally-sourced meals, we send a clearmessage: every person deserves to be nourished in body and spirit. Every guest matters, and every guest belongs at this table.
Opportunities to experience Thelma’s Kitchen:
Have lunch with us -- ThelmasKitchen.org -- Monday-Friday from 11am-2pm
Volunteer with us -- ThelmasKitchen.org/volunteer
Order Catering -- ThelmasKitchen.org
Sharing a meal has a way of breaking down barriers. Titles and stereotypes fade when
people sit at the same table.