An inspiring community tradition is making a heartfelt comeback in 2025. Soup for the Soul, a beloved local fundraiser aimed at supporting those facing hunger in Josephine County, will return to the Josephine County Fairgrounds on April 19th from 5–7 p.m. This cherished event combines handcrafted art, comforting soup, and community spirit—all for a meaningful cause.
Soup for the Soul was originally founded by a compassionate young woman named Alex Apland, whose vision was simple but impactful: pair locally made ceramic bowls with warm, delicious soups to raise money and awareness for food insecurity. Over the years, this creative gathering became a signature event, capturing the hearts of many. As the program evolved, Alex made the generous decision to designate the Reaching Our Community (ROC) Food Pantry as the sole beneficiary, ensuring that every bowl sold would directly support hungry families in our region.
The ROC Food Pantry is the largest food distribution center for the Josephine County Food Bank, serving more than 7,000 individuals each month. Community members can visit the pantry once a week to receive groceries and essential items, helping to bridge the gap caused by rising costs, medical hardships, housing instability, and other challenges. The ROC also runs a home delivery program for homebound residents in the Grants Pass area. Deliveries are coordinated through their main office and take place on Thursdays.
As demand continues to grow, the ROC Food Pantry relies heavily on community support. The pantry is in need of both financial donations and physical supplies, especially non-perishable food items like canned goods, shelf-stable products, and adult hygiene essentials. Volunteers are always welcome, and the organization encourages anyone interested in lending a hand or contributing resources to visit their website for more information.
Tickets for this year’s Soup for the Soul event are priced at $40 per person, which includes a one-of-a-kind handcrafted ceramic bowl to take home. Attendees will be treated to a variety of soups made by local chefs and volunteers, served in a warm, welcoming atmosphere filled with purpose. It’s not just a meal—it’s a reminder of how a small act of kindness can nourish an entire community.
Tickets are available now at the ROC Food Pantry’s website: www.rochome.org. Proceeds go directly toward supporting ROC’s mission to fight food insecurity and provide critical assistance to those in need.
With deep roots in compassion and community, Soup for the Soul continues to grow into something truly extraordinary. Don’t miss your chance to be part of this special evening—where every bowl tells a story, and every spoonful makes a difference.