The Hope Community Services soup kitchen in New Rochelle is back in business.

While outdoor service was available during the pandemic, the facility was forced to shut down indoor service because COVID-19 nearly two years ago.

Volunteers served a hot dinner of sausage and peppers plus sides on Monday to dozens of clients both indoors and outdoors.

As part of its a new protocol, only vaccinated clients can dine indoors.

Unvaccinated diners could still enjoy the hot meal at tables outside.

The executive director says their mission isn't just about feeding the hungry but it's also about giving folks the sense of community they crave.

Hope Community Services is now serving dinner five nights a week. It generally serves about 100 people a night.