Springfield — The annual Souper Bowl of Caring food drive is set to mobilize community members in Delaware County to address local hunger issues this winter. Scheduled for January 31, 2024, volunteers will distribute 20,000 door hangers across various neighborhoods, encouraging residents to donate nonperishable food items.
Participating areas include Aston, Morton, Rutledge, Springfield, the Westbrook Park section of Upper Darby, and parts of Ridley Township. On the following Saturday, February 7, 2024, residents in these neighborhoods are encouraged to place their food donations outside their doors by 10 a.m., with the attached hangers to facilitate pickup.
As part of the initiative, donors are reminded to check expiration dates on all goods to ensure only in-date items are contributed. In addition to food, the drive will collect toiletries, infant formula, baby wipes, and diapers to assist local families in need.
For individuals outside the participating neighborhoods or those unable to be home on the collection day, donations can be dropped off at the portico of Chambers Memorial Presbyterian Church anytime from February 1 to February 7. The food drive is supported by 13 local churches, including St. Matthew, St. Francis, and Holy Cross, which are all working together to maximize outreach and impact.
Many community groups, including youth organizations from local high schools and scout troops, are also contributing their time and effort to this cause. The collected food will be distributed to various local charities, ensuring that support reaches those most affected by food insecurity. Benefiting organizations include City Team, Chester Eastside, and the Holy Cross Food Pantry, among others.
The Souper Bowl of Caring initiative has historically demonstrated its effectiveness by mobilizing grassroots resources, raising over $220 million in support since its inception. This funding remains local, ensuring that community members receive the help they need.
For further information about the Souper Bowl of Caring, interested parties can contact the organization at 1-800-358-SOUP (7687) or visit their website at http://tacklehunger.org. Those wishing to support the drive by hosting a yard sign or volunteering can find additional details at http://DelcoSouperbowlofcaring.weebly.com. All signs will be collected after the food drive for use in future events.
This event exemplifies the spirit of community involvement and compassion, aiming to ensure that no one goes hungry during the winter months.
