The annual Souper Bowl of Caring food drive is set to mobilize the community of Delaware County to combat hunger this winter. Scheduled for January 31, 2024, volunteers will distribute 20,000 door hangers in areas including Aston, Morton, Rutledge, Springfield, Westbrook Park in Upper Darby, and parts of Ridley Township. This nationwide initiative aims to strengthen local food charities by ensuring they have sufficient resources to support those in need.
Food Drive Details and Participation
On February 7, 2024, residents in the targeted neighborhoods can place their nonperishable food donations, along with the door hangers, outside their homes by 10:00 a.m. for pickup. Participants are encouraged to check expiration dates to ensure only in-date items are donated. The drive will also accept toiletries, baby formula, wipes, and diapers.
For those outside the participating neighborhoods or unable to donate on that day, food can be dropped off at the Chambers Memorial Presbyterian Church from February 1 to February 7. The initiative sees collaboration from 13 local churches, including St. Matthew, St. Francis, and Holy Cross, all united in the effort to alleviate hunger.
Many community organizations will benefit from the collected food, including City Team, Chester Eastside, and the Ridley Park Methodist Food Pantry. These charities are tasked with distributing the donations to families and individuals facing food insecurity.
Community Engagement and Impact
The Souper Bowl of Caring, alongside the grassroots campaign Tackle Hunger, has generated over $220 million in local support to ensure no one goes without essential food items. Volunteers from local schools, including Girl Scouts and Boy Scouts, along with youth groups from participating churches, will play a crucial role in the success of the drive.
For more information on how to volunteer or host a yard sign promoting the food drive, interested individuals can visit the Souper Bowl of Caring website or contact the organization directly at 1-800-358-SOUP (7687).
In related community news, Danielle DiNafo, a student from Eddystone and a major in cybersecurity and digital forensics at Neumann University, has received the prestigious Benjamin A. Gilman International Scholarship. This award will support her participation in a Global Business Project seminar, which includes an experiential learning opportunity in Ireland.
DiNafo is among a competitive pool of applicants for the Gilman Scholarship, which aims to enhance American students’ international experience and global networks. She expressed gratitude for the support that made this opportunity possible, highlighting the importance of gaining international experience to improve her employability.
The Souper Bowl of Caring food drive exemplifies community spirit and collaboration, aiming to make a meaningful impact in the lives of those facing food insecurity in Delaware County.
