Columbia Celebrates Heartwarming Thanksgiving Tradition with Annual ‘Souper’ Event

Columbia Brings Back a Heartwarming Tradition Before Thanksgiving

In the charming city of Columbia, S.C., as the turkey and stuffing preparations begin, a special tradition warms the hearts of the community every year just before Thanksgiving. For 44 years running, the Columbia Women’s Shelter, Chick-Fil-A, and Eastminster Presbyterian Church have teamed up to host a delightful event known as a “Souper.” This annual gathering not only aims to fill the bellies of attendees with delicious soups but also serves as the shelter’s only fundraiser of the year.

A Meaningful Time to Give Thanks

Lee Coggiola, a board member for the Columbia Women’s Shelter, shared the heart behind this beloved gathering. “It is to remind people of the blessings that they have this time of year,” she said. Planning such an event gives everyone a chance to reflect on the warmer aspects of life, especially during the holiday season when community connections shine the brightest.

The lingering aroma of hearty soups fills the air, creating an inviting atmosphere. The event not only provides nourishment for the stomachs but also nurtures the soul. Coggiola emphasized the importance of the fundraiser, as it allows individuals to recognize and empathize with the struggles faced by those less fortunate. “Sometimes it can be one medical situation, and they lose their home. They haven’t done anything wrong, just life circumstances, and there they are without a home to stay in,” she explained.

A Lifeline for Women in Need

The Columbia Women’s Shelter has been a beacon of hope since the 1970s, offering temporary refuge for women navigating challenging circumstances. The shelter has the capacity to house around nine women at any given time, alongside providing 17 transitional homes for those on their path to recovery. The team behind the shelter is committed to pouring out love and support to help these women regain stability, a crucial aspect of the shelter’s mission.

Not only does the “Souper” provide financial support, but it also exemplifies the community coming together to lend a helping hand. Senior Pastor Brad Smith from Eastminster Presbyterian Church echoed this sentiment, saying, “This is a team effort from folks across the community.” He pointed out that the fundamental goal of their collaboration is simple yet profound: to love and serve those in need.

Creating Community Connections

As the event draws closer each year, the excitement in Columbia builds, with residents eager to unite and contribute. What truly resonates is the sense of community in the shared mission of helping one another. The “Souper” serves as more than just a fundraising event; it’s a celebration of humanity, compassion, and cooperation. It highlights the fact that everyone in the community can play a role in making a difference, no matter how small.

The stories of individuals who have found refuge in the Columbia Women’s Shelter make it clear that everyone deserves a chance to bounce back. Coggiola stressed this perspective, urging attendees to remember that not everyone’s journey is as smooth. “Remember that there are people out there that are really struggling, often through no fault of their own. They need a place to go to have comfort and care,” she remarked.

How You Can Help

As the Thanksgiving holiday approaches, this event serves as a reminder to embrace gratitude while taking action to uplift others. If you’re curious about supporting the Columbia Women’s Shelter, whether through donations or volunteering, you can find additional information from the shelter’s outreach. The power of community can lead to significant changes for those in need, and every little bit helps.

So, as the holiday season kicks into gear, keep the spirit of giving alive through the “Souper,” and let it inspire you to share warmth, kindness, and support with those around you—because in Columbia, we’re all in this together.