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The national downturn after World War I impacted Seattle's shipbuilders and the economy overall. From his office window in October 1920, Seattle businessman Martin G. Johanson watched the line grow for a soup kitchen in Pioneer Square. Johanson believed the men in line wanted not just a meal, but a chance to earn back their dignity. He rallied friends to that cause and, six months later in March 1921, opened doors to The Millionair Club Charity in a borrowed basement at Pioneer Square. The charity served hot meals, encouragement, and day jobs to the working poor. Throughout Seattle's history of economic boom and bust, The Millionair Club Charity has been constant for the ever-present unemployed. The charity is named for the way it made Johanson feel — "like a millionaire." And he dropped the "e" because you don't need to be rich to help.