The Power of Community

Souper Sunday is more than just a meal—it’s a gathering of hearts, hands, and shared generosity. Every bowl of soup represents the care and kindness of people coming together to nourish each other, not just with food but with connection and community.

Here, you’ll find photos of the faces that make Souper Sunday special—neighbors sharing meals, volunteers lending a hand, and the friendships that have formed along the way. Dive in and celebrate the spirit of giving that makes communities thrive.

9700 Meals Served
3673 In-kind Volunteer Hours
8 Souper Sunday Groups Created

Community Testimonials

Some might say it’s not about the soup, but it is, and so much more. The soup is REALLY good. And Chris is just a swell human being, going above and beyond to serve this community. It’s about human connection, and not excluding anyone. Some days I’ve wanted soup, but some days I’ve really needed soup. This is a good example of how one man’s idea can make a difference in many lives. I think the idea has become bigger maybe because he just honored his epiphany, and was open to possibilities. That’s what we are seeing now. A real cohesive group, growing beyond just soup. But the soup is where it started, and nothing happens without the SOUP.

Pat Freeburg MeyersOlympia, WA Souper Sunday Group

Souper Sunday nourishes our family and our community.

Johnny ClusterOlympia, WA Souper Sunday Group

I appreciate Souper Sunday for so many reasons. When Chris first started, I was working outdoors in Shelton, often driving home in the dark, cold and hungry. Picking up a bowl of soup for dinner felt like pure nourishment—like being cared for. As the days grew longer, I found myself looking forward to soup days, sometimes even timing my dog walks around them. Picking up soup became a little treat, a reward for getting outside. As the year went on, I proudly shared with my family—my sisters and daughters—that a friend had made this wonderful soup. They were happy to hear I was building connections in my new neighborhood. I’m not naturally outgoing, and forming a sense of community has never come easily to me. When I moved here in 2022, I didn’t know a soul. But Chris’s group became my first real feeling of Olympia as my place—my home. And to this day, it holds a special place in my heart.

Sarah BeeOlympia, WA Souper Sunday Group

The mission of Souper Sunday, along with its incredible growth and the connections it’s fostering in the community, has helped carry me through the last stretch of winter’s darkness—both mentally and emotionally. I can’t fully express how challenging these past months have been, but seeing these posts and the ripple effect they’re having gives me hope and motivation. 💗

Hazel EmberOlympia, WA Souper Sunday Group

I like that Souper Sunday is less busy and more accessible than the regular food bank, which is considerable for my disabilities.

Lennée ReidOlympia, WA Souper Sunday Group

I was in an abusive relationship with two small children. We had food at home, but I wasn’t allowed money or any autonomy. One day, a friend told me about this guy making soup and giving out portions. I decided to check it out, and a few times, we picked up Starbucks treats for the kids. But the most impactful part was the love and care I could taste in a delicious, creamy mushroom soup. It had been so long since I’d been treated with kindness and thoughtfulness.

You helped me rediscover our humanity—to see that people still pay it forward. And honestly, it gave me the courage to leave, to leap into the unknown, and to trust that strangers would help us get back on our feet. We’re out now and safe. Thank you! 💜

Lavender StromeOlympia, WA Souper Sunday Group

Community Spotlight: Dryte Pareigis – Pouring for a Purpose

At Souper Sunday, we are constantly inspired by the generosity and creativity of those who support our mission. One standout example is Olympia bartender Dryte Pareigis, whose giving spirit has made a meaningful impact on our community.

Dryte donated more than $500 in tips to Souper Sunday after hearing about our work. Moved by the way Souper Sunday brings people together with free soup for everyone, she saw an opportunity to contribute in her own unique way.

Through her personal initiative, “Pouring for a Purpose,” Dryte chooses a local charity or cause each month and donates all of her tips from a shift to support it. Her goal is not just to raise money but also to spread awareness about the incredible efforts happening in our community. Souper Sunday was honored to be one of the recipients of her generosity, and we know her efforts will continue to inspire others to give in ways big and small.

Dryte’s donation is part of a growing wave of support for Souper Sunday. Over time, we’ve seen an outpouring of generosity from people who—like Dryte—have been inspired to donate gift cards, fresh ingredients, and their time. Volunteers continue to be the heart of our mission—cooking, serving, and making sure no one in our community goes hungry. Her story is a reminder that kindness is contagious—one act of generosity often sparks another, creating ripples that spread throughout the community.

To Dryte and everyone who has contributed to making Souper Sunday what it is today—thank you. Your kindness fuels our work, and together, we are proving that small acts of generosity can lead to something truly powerful.