MTU Students Raise $3,500 to Support Western U.P. Food Bank: A Heartwarming Community Effort!

HOUGHTON, Mich. – A group of students from Michigan Technological University held a successful soup fundraiser on Sunday, raising an impressive $3,500 for the Western U.P. Food Bank. The event took place at the Good Shepherd Lutheran Church, featuring 25 different soups made by volunteers. Any leftover soup was generously donated to Little Brothers Friends of the Elderly in Houghton.

The fundraiser raised $2,800 through ticket sales alone. Local businesses, the Keweenaw Food Co-op and Louie’s Fresh Market from Lake Linden, contributed an additional $500 each, helping cover event costs. “Nearly $1,000 raised per hour — that’s amazing,” remarked Ariele Pizzo, the Marketing and Outreach Coordinator for the Keweenaw Co-op.

This initiative aimed to combat food insecurity in the Copper Country, particularly timely during ongoing government shutdown uncertainties affecting SNAP benefits.

Kayla DeRoche, the General Manager of Louie’s Market, expressed her gratitude: “We are deeply grateful for the opportunity to give back to our community, especially in times of need. Our neighbors are more than customers—they’re family.” She emphasized the store’s commitment to compassion and service to the community they’ve been a part of for generations.

In the U.S., food insecurity is a pressing issue. According to recent data from the U.S. Department of Agriculture, over 10% of American households faced food insecurity in 2021. Local events like this fundraiser are vital in addressing those challenges.

The Western U.P. Food Bank serves individuals and families in need across the region. They are located at 926 Dodge St. in Houghton and are open Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. For more information, you can reach them at 906-482-5528.

Efforts like this show the real impact of community support, especially during challenging times. It’s a reminder that even small acts can make a big difference in the lives of those around us.



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