Instead of holding its 2025 Soup’s On Luncheon And Art Sale patron party prior to the main event on Monday, January 27, The Stewpot Alliance opted to hold it on Wednesday, February 19, at The African American Museum. Despite the frigid temperatures, guests like Rev. Amos Disasa, Charlene Jin-Lee, Margie Francis, Amy Desler, Jonathan Maurer and Morgan Cline were on hand to be thanked and reminded that their efforts had been so vital, especially with such cold temperatures impacting The Stewpot clients. Here’s a report from the field:
Patrons and volunteers of The Stewpot Alliance Soup’s On Luncheon and Art Sale recently gathered for a soiree at The African American Museum in Fair Park to celebrate the success of the 17th annual fundraiser held in January.
The Stewpot Executive Director Brenda Snitzer, Stewpot Alliance President Bea Njuguna and Soup’s On Co-Chairs Isabell and Philip Higginbotham and Buddy Jordan thanked the attendees for their valued time, talents and support of the luncheon and art sale.
Celebrity Chef Chair Brian C. Luscher also recognized the vital importance of the services provided by The Stewpot, especially during the current “arctic blast.”
While below freezing temperatures are a life-or-death situation for those living on the streets, The Stewpot team shared that they were actively working with neighbors to find transportation and shelter in Fair Park out of the frigid air. The Stewpot staff were on the streets handing out cold-weather gear such as coats, hats, gloves and hand warmers to help everyone stay safe.
Since its founding in 1975 to feed people on the streets downtown, The Stewpot has served more than 8.7 million meals. It has also grown to provide comprehensive services and a community of support for people experiencing poverty and homelessness, including programs that stabilize, house and enrich the lives of Dallas neighbors. These include helping people recover over 112,000 vital ID documents to access services and employment, funding 233 four-year scholarships for college or vocational school since 1991 and helping provide housing for 320 people since its rapid rehousing program began in 2021.
* Photo credit: Simon Luna