Woonsocket Woman Celebrates Over 137,000 Meals Served, Modern Meal Site on the Horizon

WOONSOCKET, R.I. – Jeanne Michon, the executive director, chef, and founder of New Beginnings, Inc., has reached a significant milestone in her mission to combat food insecurity in the Woonsocket community: serving over 137,000 meals since 2018. As she looks forward to the opening of a new meal site, Michon reflects on a decades-long commitment to providing dignity and nourishment to those in demand.

From Volunteer to Founder

Michon’s journey began in 1986 when she started volunteering at a local soup kitchen after a friend suggested it. “I had no idea what it was, I was 19, so we went on May 15 and on May 16, I started volunteering,” she recalled. She continued volunteering while raising her daughter, eventually accepting a full-time chef position at the soup kitchen.

New Beginnings Inc. Established

When the director of the soup kitchen decided to retire, Michon and her friends stepped in to take over, establishing New Beginnings Inc. In 2017-2018. The non-profit’s mission is to distribute fresh, homemade food to individuals experiencing homelessness or food insecurity four days a week. New Beginnings Inc. currently serves more than 300 people in the greater Woonsocket area.

A Focus on Dignity and Quality

Michon emphasizes the importance of treating everyone with respect. “People say, ‘Oh, they’re ungrateful, they’re entitled.’ Oh no, I could deliver them a bologna sandwich with mustard and they would say, ‘This is delicious Miss Jeanne’ because we do it with dignity. We treat them like human beings, we treat them like family,” she said. She also prioritizes the quality of the food, stating, “Ninety-five percent of our food is home made and if I don’t eat it, they don’t eat it.” Michon prefers the term “meal site” over “soup kitchen” to avoid negative connotations.

Navigating Challenges and a New Location

New Beginnings Inc. Has operated in several locations, starting at All Saints Church, then moving to St. James Episcopal Church until June 2025. Michon invested her life savings in purchasing a building on Stanley Avenue to serve as a permanent home for the organization. However, extensive repairs and winter weather have delayed the opening. During the renovation period, meals are being prepared at the Woonsocket Senior Center for the Open Door Shelter.

Looking Ahead

Despite the challenges, Michon remains optimistic and dedicated to her mission. She constantly varies the menu, offering meals like ribs, dynamites, and salsa chicken. With 40 years of experience in community service, Michon has no plans of slowing down. She hopes to partner with local schools in the future to provide culinary training opportunities for students. Michon has served over 137,000 meals since 2018.

New Beginnings Inc. Leadership

• Executive Director: Jeanne Michon
• President: John Levreault
• Treasurer: Dana Linder
• Secretary: Sue Bernier