Community Empowerment Through Soup: The Souper Sunday Initiative

In the winter of 2023, Chris Hyde of Olympia, Washington, faced feelings of isolation and depression after retiring. Seeking a remedy, he began cooking soup, which led to the creation of Souper Sunday, a nonprofit dedicated to providing free meals to the community. Hyde described this initiative as a transformative experience, stating, “It was this kind of full-body tingling feeling with the idea … it was almost otherworldly.” The Souper Sunday model operates through a Facebook group where members post meal availability, allowing community members to request servings. Currently, the group has grown to 5,900 members and has expanded to 11 additional groups across Washington, California, and Montana.

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Recognizing a broader need, Hyde launched a second nonprofit, The Food Source Foundation, which focuses on distributing groceries to individuals who earn too much to qualify for government assistance like SNAP benefits but still struggle to afford food. In Thurston County, where Hyde operates, 44% of food-insecure households do not meet the income criteria for SNAP support. Hyde noted that many individuals seeking food assistance are employed yet face financial burdens from high rent and other living expenses, leaving them with insufficient funds for groceries.

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Both Souper Sunday and The Food Source Foundation operate on the principle that access to nourishing food is a basic human right. Hyde emphasizes that meals are available to anyone without prerequisites or questions asked. He stated, “At The Food Source Foundation, we believe that access to nourishing food is a basic human right — not a privilege.” This inclusive approach fosters a sense of community, encouraging individuals to both receive and contribute, thereby creating a cycle of support.

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The initiatives have not only provided immediate relief to food-insecure individuals but have also fostered a sense of connection among community members. Hyde believes that “the act of making and sharing food is a time-tested way to connect people,” which helps bridge divides within the community. The Souper Sunday initiative has inspired others to consider starting similar groups, promoting a culture of giving and support.

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Hyde has expressed his commitment to ensuring that everyone, regardless of their circumstances, has access to healthy food. He remarked, “The acceptance of a meal encourages one to be involved and to contribute ingredients and time thus benefiting other community members and it goes full circle.” This philosophy underpins the operations of both nonprofits, reinforcing the idea that community support is essential for their success.

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As the demand for food assistance continues to grow, Hyde is exploring the possibility of moving operations into a commercial kitchen to better serve the community. The ongoing federal government shutdown has heightened the urgency for food support, making the work of these organizations increasingly vital. Community members are encouraged to support these initiatives through donations or by starting their own local groups, further expanding the reach of this impactful mission.

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