Since its inception in 2009, the food security initiative Soup Sisters has served over 2.5 million portions of soup to people in need across Canada. Known well for their engaging team-building-style classes that yield large batches of tasty soup for a variety of Canadians, the initiative has decided to move to a virtual format as the pandemic continues to compromise in-person experiences.
Dubbed The Virtual Soup Pot, Soup Sisters is encouraging people across the country (and beyond) to sign up for virtual soup-making classes taught by a wide range of recognizable chefs and food personalities. Participating individuals include Nicole Gomes (Top Chef Canada: All Stars winner and owner of Cluck 'N' Cleaver), Anna Olson, Lisa Ahier (Tofino's Sobo), Jennifer Schell, Rogelio Herrera (Calgary's Alloy) and many more (including myself).
After registering for an upcoming class with a $49 donation, participants will receive a grocery list, recipe, and Zoom link to the event of their choice. For every registration received, Soup Sisters will deliver four pounds of nutritious soup to a local shelter.
"The pivot to virtual soup making events was a no-brainer for Soup Sisters...Prior to COVID-19, we were operating in 26 cities and most events were booked up a year in advance,” says Soup Sisters founder and CEO, Sharon Hapton. “People really loved the idea of getting together in a meaningful way and we’re thrilled to have the opportunity to bring our unique culinary community together again safely [as the pandemic continues].”
Dates and details for upcoming chef and food personality-taught classes via The Virtual Soup Pot are available online.
