Introducing Smile Soup – Eat Soup · Pitch · Vote

A new community event in Bridlington is setting out to prove that something as simple as a bowl of soup can spark big change. The HEY Smile Foundation is launching Smile Soup – Sharing Opportunities, Unlocking Potential, a community micro-granting supper inspired by the internationally acclaimed Detroit SOUP model.

Carole Pickburn, Head of Service at HEY Smile Foundation says:

“The idea is deliciously simple: local people come together over soup, hear short pitches from groups or individuals with creative ideas to improve their community, then vote for their favourite. Every £5 ticket sold goes directly into a fund awarded to the winning project on the night.

“Projects might tackle anything from food poverty to loneliness, or health and wellbeing – all issues close to home in the East Riding area. Even those that don’t “win” often leave with new supporters, volunteers or business partners, making each event a powerful platform for collaboration and real, grassroots impact.

“Smile Soup is about local people helping local people. We want to celebrate and invest in the ideas, energy and kindness that already exist across our communities. Whether you pitch, vote, attend or sponsor, everyone plays a part in positive change. We’re proud to be turning good ideas into great outcomes – one spoonful at a time.”

With ambitions to attract more than 100 attendees per event, and raise upwards of £500 for each winning project, Smile Soup also offers an exciting opportunity for local businesses to get involved – whether by volunteering, contributing ingredients, or sponsoring an element of the evening.

Organisers are inviting charities, community groups, and individuals with bright ideas to apply for a pitching slot at the first event, taking place on Wednesday, 25th March, from 18:00-21:00, at the Crown Community Centre in Bridlington.

How to get involved: