John Nelson

John Nelson knows firsthand the struggles of poverty and addiction, but also the fulfillment of recovery and giving back.  Formerly an alcoholic and homeless, today he is Executive Chef at the Amos House Dining Hall.

John first came to Amos House in 1982 as a guest in need of a meal.  Despite a strong work ethic, he had lost his job and home due to drinking.  Sister Eileen Murphy, founder of the small soup kitchen Amos House, challenged John to take control of his life.  Her caring conversations, large portions of salad, and extra cupcakes to take home, led him back to the soup kitchen day after day.  John began to volunteer there washing dishes, stacking shelves and preparing meals.  Eventually, he became head cook. 

The tall, stately man who ate sugar sandwiches and spaghetti as a young child on welfare became responsible for buying fresh produce and groceries, and preparing hundreds of meals daily.  Desiring to learn more about the field, he studied culinary arts at Johnson & Wales College.  Through further encouragement from Amos House staff, John pursued counseling for his alcohol addiction.  Since then, he has remained clean and sober.

Over the past 25 years Chef John has dedicated his life to Amos House, arriving at the Dining Hall at 415 Friendship Street at 4:00 a.m. and leaving around 1:00 p.m. weekdays.  His exemplary work has led to many awards and recognitions, including being selected as one of 50 finalists from across America in the Pillsbury’s Best Against Hunger Awards Program.  Chef John also was awarded “The Key to the City” by former Providence Mayor Joseph Paolino, and was featured in Newsweek magazine and on the Today Show. 

Today the 55-year-old, who is also a visual artist, oversees the preparation of 800 breakfast and lunch meals at the Amos House Dining Hall six days a week.  He is known and loved for treating each guest with dignity and respect.  Chef John said he learned: “You must have love and respect for yourself before you can help someone else.”

“My heart is with the people here because Amos House saved my life,” he explained. “This is my way of giving back.”