Now that the days are shorter and the first snow of the season has fallen, we could all use a hearty bowl of nutritious soup, along with a side of community. And that’s exactly what the Soup and Sides program is serving up!

Each Monday between 5:00 and 6:30, volunteers serve up two locally made soups and invite guests to participate in community-building activities at the Wolfville Farmers’ Market.

The program, initiated as a collaboration between Community Development and Nutrition & Dietetics students in 2022, is now run by the Town of Wolfville. Even though the program has evolved into its own entity, Acadia students are still heavily involved. This semester, Jessica Murray (third year, Community Development) was one of four students leading three Soup and Sides sessions as part of their Community Program Design course.

“It’s an opportunity to get a free, cozy meal if that’s what they’re looking for,” says Jessica, “but most people I would say come for the community engagement.” Soup and Sides is free, though guests are welcome to make a voluntary donation to support the program. Additionally, any leftover soup at the end of the night each week is packaged up and shared with the Acadia Food Cupboard.

The secret ingredient? Friendship!

All are welcome to come in from the cold, enjoy a filling meal, and get to know other members of our community.

“It really helps to build relationships for those who are perhaps new to the community, or maybe they’ve been here a long time and just want to get to know some new people,” says Jessica. “One group actually said that they have a soup-based friend group now because of the event.”

Let’s serve some record-breaking soup

At the December 2 session, Soup and Sides hit a new record attendance of over 100. Barb Shaw (Town of Wolfville) says she’s hoping to see even more people come out to enjoy a meal with them. “I really hope to boost guest numbers at the meal as we can serve 50 more people each week,” she explains. “This program is building community, one bowl of soup at a time.”

The program is also hoping to welcome new volunteers onto the team. They need people to greet guests, serve food, and do dishes. If you’re interested in volunteering, send them an email and tell them you’d like to get involved!

So, come on out to enjoy some delicious soup with a filling side of community! Bring your friends or come to make new ones. Whether you’re there to participate or volunteer, we hope to connect with you over a steaming bowl of cream of mushroom.

The program runs from fall through to the spring with a hiatus for the holidays. The last session of 2024 will be on December 16 and will resume on January 13.