Publications

23 The organization was founded by five Tuscaloosa churches: Christ Episcopal, First Baptist, First African Baptist, First Methodist and First Presbyterian. These churches are still major sponsors of the organization today. The Community Soup Bowl has grown considerably since its start, when it made soup in a church kitchen and served it in a rented house several blocks away. Eventually, the organization was able to move to a house with a kitchen, enabling on-site food preparation. In 1998, the Community Soup Bowl moved into its current building, and in 2005 expanded from serving meals five days a week to seven days a week. Today, church groups, college students and local clubs and businesses support the weekend operations. "It's very rewarding to see people from all walks of life come in "We have some come in during a hard part of their lives and we provide a respite or place to go while they get their feet back on the ground." – Amy Perkins, executive director, Community Soup Bowl and feel welcome here," said Amy Perkins, executive director. "We do more than just provide a hot meal; this is a place for the community to gather and feel welcome." Perkins, a dietitian, helps ensure that the organization serves nutritious, healthy meals, but also listens to clients' other needs. She keeps an ear to the ground for additional local resources that might benefit them. "We have some come in during a hard part of their lives and we provide a respite or place to go while they get their feet back on the ground," she said. "Everybody who comes in here has their own story and has so many reasons why they're here." In 2016, the Alabama Power Foundation awarded the organization a grant to support its work in West Alabama. "We are currently operating at capacity," said Perkins. "We appreciate the Alabama Power Foundation's support." In 2016, the Alabama Power Service Organization (APSO) supported the Community Soup Bowl with a foundation grant as well as volunteer hours. Several times each year, APSO members come to serve. "They do it all," said Perkins. "Buy the food, cook it, serve it and then clean up aerward." In 2016, the Community Soup Bowl served more than 95,000 meals. But more than food is offered. "We have grown into a fixture in the community," said Perkins. "A lot of people don't have anyone in their lives to say 'How are you doing today?' so it's great to give people that connection." Civic & Community

• Cover