In 2008, Carolyn Stegner recognized a need existed in the city of Springfield, Ohio for hot meals to be available for the homeless and other individuals in need. With encouragement and advice from St. Vincent de Paul Society, Springfield, Ohio and St. Patrick's Soup Kitchen in Troy, Ohio, Carolyn Stegner started the 'Springfield Soup Kitchen'. Cooking out of her home, the first meals were served April 6th, 2009 in the basement of the formerly St. Mary's Catholic Church on 1027 West High St. in Springfield. In 2010 the location moved to 'Un Mundo Cafe' at 801 West Main St, Springfield. As the numbers of those in need increased, a move to a more permanent location with kitchen facilities was necessary. Startup of the new location for the 'Springfield Soup Kitchen' opening date was the Eve of Thanksgiving 23rd November 2011, at 830 West Main St, Springfield, Ohio. Most recently, individuals served have averaged around 250 people.

The Springfield Soup Kitchen is a Non-Profit organization. The Springfield Soup Kitchen is designated a 501(c)3 federally tax exempt and legally authorized organization for all contributions as tax deductible by the Internal Revenue Service. Community volunteers and donations of food and funds for serving requirements and utilities are always needed. The Springfield Soup Kitchen purchases 95% of its food and cooks on-site. Some food is obtained from many other different sources which include restaurants, supermarkets and religious organization donations.

Volunteers come from many different religious denominations and of all faiths. The Springfield Soup Kitchen is truly a total community effort. The people served include the homeless, recently unemployed, people passing through town, and other needy. The majority of people served are facing hard times through no fault of their own. Many are medically challenged.

The Springfield Soup Kitchen tries to present a home atmosphere and cheerfully welcomes all in need.