The entirely student-run event will be held on Saturday, Feb. 9 at First Presbyterian Church Moorestown from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Each year, during the frigid winter months, Moorestown High School’s Interact Club hosts an event intended to provide a little warmth. On Saturday, Feb. 9, “Soup for the Soul” returns, and this year Interact is hoping to raise $5,000 to donate to Philabundance, a local hunger relief organization.
The event is a buffet style meal with all-you-can-eat soup and bread donated by local restaurants. The entirely student-run event will be held at First Presbyterian Church Moorestown from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Junior Sam Winkler, a member of Interact Club, said the event has grown each year since its inception 17 years ago. Winkler said since the club’s beginning, helping the hungry has been one of the primary missions. So, when they decided to host their first fundraiser to donate to hunger relief, they settled on a soup-themed event, and the tradition has continued ever since.
In previous years, Interact has set a $2,500 goal, but last year they upped the ante. Winkler said they hoped to raise $5,000 but fell short of their goal. This year, they’re trying again in hopes of meeting that $5,000 mark,
For months now, approximately 10 students, Winkler included, have met on a weekly basis to plan for the event. Winkler said it’s all about getting the word out, so they’ve targeted nursing homes, churches and other local organizations that can put the event on people’s radar. At this time, Interact is still seeking donations from local companies who may be able to provide funding or soup for the day’s festivities.
In addition to the array of soup offerings, Interact will also provide live entertainment. Winkler said they’re hoping to have live music, and for children, they’ll have arts and crafts on hand.
Winkler said the event is fairly relaxed in tone. They encourage attendees to come, enjoy some warm food and donate to a good cause. He said while the event is not very costly, the donations add up and go a long way.
In its 17 years, “Soup for the Soul” has become a staple event not only for MHS’ Interact Club, but the community. Winkler said the fundraiser connects people from around the community as they come together for a good cause.
“It reaches out to so many different members of the community, and it just brings so many different kinds of people together,” Winkler said.
Tickets are $10 for adults and $7 for seniors and children. Additionally, with a $10 takeout option, attendees will receive a container of their favorite soup, as well as two pieces of bread. Tickets can be purchased at the door. To find out more about Interact, visit https://www.moorestownrotary.org/stories/interact.
