Morgan Halley-Gluesing, Kayla Deroche, Naudia Meneguzzo, and Ariele Pizzo pose for a photo at a community soup fundraiser at Good Shepard Lutheran Church in Houghton. (Provided photo)

HOUGHTON — FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Michigan Tech Students Host Soup Fundraiser, Raise $3,500 for Western U.P. Food Bank

A group of Michigan Tech students came together on Nov. 9 at Good Shepherd Lutheran Church in Houghton to host a community soup fundraiser in response to uncertainty around SNAP benefits and the government shutdown. With 25 types of soup prepared by volunteers, the event raised $2,800 for the Western U.P. Food Bank, and all leftover soup was donated to Little Brothers Friends of the Elderly, ensuring no one went without a meal.

Supporting their efforts, the Keweenaw Co+op in Hancock and Louie’s Fresh Market in Lake Linden each contributed $500, with part of Louie’s donation covering the costs of running the fundraiser. Together, these contributions bring the total donation to $3,500, which will go directly to the Western U.P. Food Bank. Morgan Halley-Gluesing, representing the student group, stopped by the co-op to pick up the checks, joined by Kayla DeRoche, General Manager at Louie’s, and Naudia Meneguzzo, Grocery Manager. The full donation was taken to the food bank.

“We’ll be able to feed 25 families for a week!” said Morgan Halley-Gluesing, celebrating the impact of the fundraiser.

“Nearly $1,000 raised per hour — that’s amazing! I’m continuously in awe of what our community can do when we come together,” said Ariele Pizzo, Marketing & Outreach Coordinator at Keweenaw Co+op.

“We are deeply grateful for the opportunity to give back to our community, especially in times of need. As a family-owned grocery store, serving others has always been at the heart of who we are. Our neighbors are more than customers–they’re part of our extended family. Being able to support those facing challenges is not only our responsibility, but our privilege. We remain committed to offering care, compassion, and dependable service to the community that has supported us for generations,” said Kayla DeRoche, General Manager, Louie’s Fresh Market.

The Western U.P. Food Bank provides food support to individuals and families across the region. Those in need–or looking to get involved–can reach them at 906-482-5528. The food bank is located at 926 Dodge Street, Houghton and is open Monday-Friday 8:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.

This collaborative effort highlights the power of community action, student initiative, and local business support in helping neighbors during challenging times.