ROME (JTA) – Chabad in Milan is preparing to launch what is said to be the first kosher soup kitchen in Italy.

Sponsored by the Milan branch of Chabad’s educational organization, Merkos l’Inyonei Chinuch, it is expected to begin operation at the end of the summer.

The initiative will be a canteen providing free take-away meals to needy people and will be located in the Merkos school, according to an announcement on Friday.

“The big difference that will make the Merkos canteen unique in respect to other similar initiatives in Italy and Milan will be that it will be kosher,” the statement said.

The canteen will be aimed at needy members of the Jewish community, but, the statement said, it will also serve non-Jews in need.

Similar Merkos projects are under way in Australia and Brazil, according to Chabad.

A gala benefit to support the project will be held June 17 at Milan’s Vetra Theatre, featuring the Jewish singer Raiz, front man of a noted Italian rock group.