SOUPer Bowl raises thousands to feed needy - Mississippi News Now

JACKSON, MS (Mississippi News Now) - Its mission is to help those who are suffering and to get that done the Salvation Army looks to the community to help them. And each year before the NFL Championship game the organization holds a special bowl of its own.

"Come out enjoy some soup and get ready for the game," said long time Salvation Army Supporter Gloria Ayers over a steaming bowl of soup.

She has been attending the event for the past ten years.

"This is our way of showing that we appreciate what the Salvation Army does for the community, as well as be able to help ourselves and the soup is great," said Ayers.

Every delectable soup, the finest Jackson and metro area restaurants have to offer, is served up by some very familiar faces.

"Tonight we're gonna all go to our parties, and we're gonna eat and eat and eat while there are people in our community who don't. So there are people here saying you know what if I'm gonna go enjoy myself the least I can do today is come buy some soup and help people who can't help themselves in our community," said Capt. Ken Chapman of the Salvation Army Metro Jackson.

Governor Phil Bryant and First Lady Deborah are among those here this 17th year.

"This is just another good opportunity for us to get some local area restaurants involved, spend a little money buying some wonderful things and that money will go to help the unfortunate around central Mississippi that are in tough conditions and need our help," said Governor Bryant.

We heard the Governor had his eye on some MBraves jerseys up for auction. That silent auction features paintings, books, jewelry and more. Those along with each cup full help feed the needy, 53,000 people each year in Jackson alone.

"It's no secret what the Salvation Army does," said soup server and WLBT Executive Producer Galean James.

The WLBT/WDBD family including those behind the scenes rolled up their sleeves hoping to make a difference.

"This gives us a way to show that hey we do care. We do love our community, and this is just a simple way to give back," said James.

The annual fundraiser also includes a fashion show with models wearing stylish clothing from the Salvation Army Family Store.

Last year the SOUPer Bowl raised $15,000.00.

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