Strengthening the Boulder Community, One Soup Bowl at a Time
When you think about the ultimate comfort food, there’s a good possibility that soup pops into your mind. And when it’s paired with a biscuit and a cookie, you’ve got yourself a delicious meal that warms both body and soul—especially when you’re facing food insecurity or find yourself in a crisis. Thanks to our vibrant community partnerships, JFS Boulder is helping to bring nutritious goodness to our neighbors.
Making soup is more than creating a simple and satisfying meal. It’s an opportunity to create a sense of belonging, strengthen our community, and combat food insufficiency. For chefs Amy Cramer and Miche Bacher—who is now JFS Boulder’s Development and Community Engagement Manager—what began as a way to help those impacted by the Marshall Fire evolved into something quite powerful. Initially, Amy and Miche wondered how they could use their skills and help the community in the aftermath of the devastating fire. The two learned that while the need for food was high, it was even greater for those with alternative dietary needs, such as vegans and those following gluten-free diets.
When the Boulder JCC heard about the situation, they immediately asked, “How can we help?” and stepped in by offering the use of their kitchen and coordinating volunteers. And thanks to JEWISHcolorado, who initially funded the initiative for one year, once a week, the soup group created behind-the-scenes goodness, including gluten-free and vegan soup, cookies, and biscuits to help lessen the anxiety and hunger individuals and families faced.
As community needs decreased over the next four years, cooking frequency gradually shifted from weekly to biweekly, and now to once a month. The soup is available to all, whether someone is experiencing food insecurity, going through a crisis, or facing a temporary setback. “We realized there are people beyond the Marshall Fire, with means or not, who could benefit from a warm meal,” shared Miche. Each month, approximately 225 bowls of delicious soups—such as tomato bisque, Italian vegetable bean, and sweet potato—plus biscuits and cookies, are enjoyed throughout the community and by JFS clients. All soups remain gluten-free and vegan so that everyone can enjoy them, thanks to a generous JFS donor who helps fund the project and JCC volunteers who contribute their culinary skills.
“Community partnerships work,” shared Miche. “Whether it’s coordinating volunteers, offering kitchen space, or providing financial support, joint efforts make solutions happen. We must be forward-thinking, acknowledge food insecurity, and be part of the solution.”
JFS Boulder continues to extend its reach, serving more in our community, and it’s exciting to see!