First United Methodist Church brings back Souper Soups Nov. 21

Soup is a mainstay for fall in almost every culture and, as colder weather rears its head, for the past 20-plus years, the ladies of First United Methodist Church have taken that concept in a philanthropic direction.

Once again, United Women in Faith will hold their Souper Soups event at the church on Nov. 21 at a cost of $12.

Martha Davidson, one of the ladies helping with the event, said it's more than just a church feed.

"It's a fundraiser," Davidson said. "We raise money to go to missions. United Women in Faith has project missions to other parts of the world. The whole church is a part of it even though our project gets everyone involved. People love working together, prepping and seeing the community enjoy the food."

For their $12 participants get a bowl of either chili or Tuscan potato soup, a ham, cheese or turkey salad sandwich and a homemade dessert. The proceeds are distributed both locally and nationally, Davidson said.

"Some is local, like Center for Survivors and the food bank at the outreach center needs funding," Davidson said. "It has also gone to places like Epworth Village in York. Some goes to the bigger organizations, like, national, too."

Soup enthusiasts can stop by the church at 2710 14th St. on Nov. 21 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. for lunch or 4-7 p.m. for supper. After trying out the hours of operation last year and seeing some success, Davidson said they decided to keep the option.

"We found out people like what we're serving, so we're sticking to it," she said. "We have the noon and supper times now, and carry-out is a big feature."

For those who are only interested in one item or another, there are a la carte options available — a bowl of soup is $5, a cup is $4, sandwiches for $4 and dessert for $4.

The church's talented group of bakers are not only providing the dessert options, but they are holding a bake sale as well, Davidson said.