The Samaritan Center served up another ‘souper’ bowl of creativity and flavor as people broke bread to help others during its 32nd annual Soup Bowl event. The Samaritan Center, a program of Catholic Charities of the Diocese of Palm Beach, assists local homeless families by providing transitional housing and guidance to prepare them to live independently.
The Heritage Center was once again the central hub of the event, with soup there served up by the Source’s Dignity Food Truck. Artisans from Indian River Clay continued their longtime support, creating roughly 1,100 wheel-thrown and hand-built pottery bowls.
Generous helpings of soup were ladled up at 26 locations around town, including nonprofits, places of worship and local businesses serving a mix of deliciousness made by local country clubs and event participants.
Ellen Wayne, Catholic Charities CEO, said the beautifully crafted bowls serve as a reminder of the needs of others throughout the year.
“People are willing to bless us with their art. They help us create a symbol that can be shared far and wide that gets people to understand, and at least remember, the needs of the homeless.
We’re forever grateful for all the many hands that help us get that message out,” said Wayne.
“The great thing about a bowl is that you’re going to pull it out of the cupboard all year long and it will remind you to offer a prayer, make a donation, or deliver a meal. The symbol really is a call to action,” she added.
She noted that the Samaritan Center is a vital resource, given the increase of working families in crisis and facing homelessness.
“We’re only able to serve so many people based on our current physical footprint,” said Wayne.
She added that they hope to identify ways to further impact homeless families, especially finding permanent housing, which is what they consider a successful exit from the program.
The Samaritan Center has helped more than 2,000 parents and their children since opening in 1992, working with parents to develop independent living skills through case management, workshops and mental health counseling.
“It’s heartwarming that the whole community comes together for this fundraiser. We estimate that over 2,000 people are involved, a multitude of volunteers that work together,” said Renee Bireley, Samaritan Center development manager.
“Everybody can do something to become involved in the soup bowl. It’s just a wonderful community outreach.”
Noting that the cost of a bowl of soup at the event hasn’t increased in price since 1992, Bireley added, “I love that it’s humble. Anybody can give just $5.”
Photos by Joshua Kodis
