Why we love Soup.
We love Soup – Newcastle Soup, (link) to be exact!
Last night we joined a packed room full of (mostly) strangers at Ouseburn’s chilled and quirky restaurant-bar, Ernest. We each popped £4 into a pot and settled in to listen to four local community groups speak enthusiastically and passionately about their project for four minutes each. They also had the opportunity to answer four questions from the audience.
Afterwards, we enjoyed a bowl of soup and bread (kindly donated by Ernest) while we gathered round the long tables. Each person then voted for their favourite cause, the ballot was counted, and the winning group was awarded the pot of takings.
The Groups
Team Kenya (link): UK charity educating girls, empowering women, and transforming communities.
Star and Shadow Cinema (link): Volunteer-run community hub currently running a crowdfunder for their new building.
Crafty Angels (link): Upcycling gift kits and No Plastic Toys play sessions.
The winner of the £200 pot was Susan from Skills for People (link). She shared passionately about pottery classes for students with a variety of learning disabilities, helping them build self-esteem, confidence, and relationships. The prize money will keep the group going until the end of February and provide invaluable support to her community of learners.
Why Soup is Valuable
The great value of Soup isn’t just in the cash pot. It’s about raising awareness, starting conversations, making connections, recruiting volunteers, and finding support and encouragement.
Earlier this week, a friend asked me, “Aren’t you terrified about the world we’re living in?” On reflection, I honestly could say no. Richard and I are blessed to meet people every working day like the Soup pitchers – passionate individuals in charities and small businesses who identify problems or needs and set about solving them.
Our local area is brimming with people keen to make communities better, happier, and healthier. Attending Soup is a great antidote to despair and gives hope.
How to Get Involved
Do you know of a community project that could use micro-funding or awareness? Email: booking@ernest.com
Sign up for updates via the Newcastle Soup Facebook page or email booking@weareernest.com.
Other Local Projects
Check out previous Soup winners and other local initiatives in our blog archives:
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