Lexi Riley
Staff Writer
Every Wednesday from 11 a.m.-1 p.m. at Kittredge Hall, students enjoy the opportunity to eat a simple meal to contribute to the fight against hunger. “Eat simply, so others can simply eat,” the motto of The College of Wooster’s Soup and Bread Program, embodies the attitude and motivation of the organization’s volunteers.
Typically, the program raises money and awareness for local organizations. However, on Wed., Aug. 30, Soup and Bread sought to generate donations to benefit the victims of Hurricane Harvey and flooding in Texas. With hungry students forming a line extending out the door, the campus responded resoundingly.
Nate Addington, interim director of Interfaith Campus Ministries at The College of Wooster, excitedly shared that the program garnered funds of over $2,501 for the Houston Food Bank, with contributions still streaming in from students and staff. Raising over $2,000 more than on a typical Wednesday, Addington emphasized the impact of such a good turnout, noting that “the donations will provide over 7,500 meals for the people living on the streets or in temporary shelters.”
The Soup and Bread Program unifies the Wooster community and represents a source of campus-wide pride. Bella Ilievski ’21, a newcomer to Soup and Bread, quickly embraced the Wooster ideals. “I chose Soup and Bread because I thought it was for a good cause and I knew it would help benefit other people,” said Ilievski.
“I think it definitely could become a weekly habit. It’s good to help other people who are in need whether in Houston like this week or for the Wooster town community.”
Addington agreed and said “it allows [all the participants] to stay rooted in the deeper history of the College of Wooster” knowing that “the work impacts so many.”
This program exemplifies the monumental ways in which the Wooster community can positively affect the world by simply having, as Addington said, “a concept of mindfulness that I can take a moment out of my day to just think about how I’m living and eating and helping other people.” The Soup and Bread program acts as a microcosm for the immense difference the Wooster community imparts on the world with mindful decisions as simple as a swipe, and embodies the values characteristic of a Wooster student.
Addington also emphasized the importance of remembering that hunger is a constant battle. He encourages students to make Soup and Bread a routine, to share the event with friends and get involved as volunteers to help the program. In the fight against hunger, every swipe makes a significant difference.