A student asked how to say "Soup Kitchen" in Spanish. Of course I can translate it, but my question is...Do they exist in Spain? Are there places where poor people can go for a free lunch? If so, what are they called?

Muchas gracias!

in my days there were run by the church and religious orders, now its been a while so maybe still are but not heard any yet. For example in the city of Madrid webpage you have "Comedores sociales" which are still run by religious orders today, how about that.

are " comedores sociales" Why do you want to know that?

The students are learning the places in town. (tienda, biblioteca, restaurante) For some reason the last couple weeks this boy has been asking about soup kitchens. I explained that kitchen is "cocina" and soup is "sopa" but that it might not make any sense to a Spaniard. Today I promised him I would ask. Two of my other friends also mentioned Caritas. Does that ring a bell with anyone?

Although last year,perhaps to be useful for you http://www.espormadrid.es/2010/02/comidas-en-los-comedores-sociales-y.html

yes Caritas is the Catholic Church needs org. they should have one in Madrid, google for it, I am on my way out. cheers