About Us
From Small Acts to Lasting Impact
In 2016, a group of volunteers from the New Brunswick Islamic Center saw an opportunity to support neighbors in need, just two miles from their mosque. Starting with a few hamburgers one Friday night, they quickly turned this small gesture into a weekly tradition. Each Friday, the team gathered at a local park, and with the support of the community, they soon expanded to provide 50 to 100 hot meals weekly.
By 2021, the community’s enthusiasm for this mission led to a new home for La Cocina at 367 Somerset St. Today, we serve a free dinner every Wednesday at 6 pm. Our goal is ambitious yet close to our hearts: by 2030, we aim to offer a nourishing meal every single day. Join us on this journey to make New Brunswick a place where no one dines alone.
Our Story in Motion
A Hub for Service and Learning
Through the support of the Safina Foundation, La Cocina has become more than just a soup kitchen. Our New Brunswick location is a community hub, offering meals, education, and outreach. Here’s how our space is making a difference:
Weekly Soup Kitchen
Every Wednesday, we serve a free meal to anyone in need, creating a warm, welcoming environment for the local community.
Evening Classes at Darul Fath
Our space hosts evening classes for the Darul Fath theological college, providing a place for men in the community to engage in meaningful learning and spiritual growth.
Daytime Studio for Nothin’ But Facts
By day, Dr. Shadee streams his educational program, Nothin' But Facts, from our upstairs studio, reaching a wide audience with engaging and informative content.