Why is it called soup kitchen for needy?

[ratih]

English Language Proficiency Tests, Advanced Level

ESL/EFL Test #597 "Real Life: Volunteer Work (1)", question 4

Other volunteer organizations have formed ......... kitchens for the needy. These establishments provide food for free or at a very low cost to homeless or impoverished individuals.

(a) meat
(b) beef
(c) fish
(d) soup

English Language Proficiency Tests, Advanced Level

ESL/EFL Test #597 "Real Life: Volunteer Work (1)", answer 4

Other volunteer organizations have formed soup kitchens for the needy. These establishments provide food for free or at a very low cost to homeless or impoverished individuals.

Correct answer: (d) soup
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why is it called soup kitchen for needy?

ratih

[Mister Micawber]

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Because originally that was about all they served. There were long lines of the hungry and homeless during the Great Depression, and a quick,hot bowl of soup was about all soup kitchens had the time and resources to serve.
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Native English teacher at Mister Micawber's