More than 15 large containers of soup have been distributed to an Ottawa women’s shelter following a recent collaboration between the Bess and Moe Greenberg Family Hillel Lodge and the Women’s Collective Philanthropy Program (WCPP) of the Ottawa Jewish Community Foundation.

Inspired by Soup Sisters, a program founded by Calgary businesswoman and philanthropist Sharon Hapton that invites participants to prepare large batches of soup for local shelters, the Hillel Lodge partnership reflects something close to Lynne Oreck-Wener’s heart. Oreck Wener founded the WCPP 15 years ago to bring women together through meaningful, hands on philanthropy. 

Having participated in several soup‑making events herself, she knew the model would be a natural fit for Hillel Lodge, uniting residents, their family members, and staff around the shared joy of cooking for a good cause.

“I remembered that we had done something similar in a retirement home setting before,” she said. “And after working with Hillel Lodge previously, I thought it could work well.”

For Oreck‑Wener, making soup carries a deeper symbolism tied to memory, tradition, and caregiving.

“Making soup is part of our DNA; it’s what was done to nourish the soul,” she said.

What unfolded at Hillel Lodge exceeded her expectations. Residents joined volunteers and staff in peeling, chopping, labeling, and preparing vegetables that would later become hearty soup for a local shelter.

“Hillel Lodge staff worked with us to ensure the program would be safe and accessible for the residents. They were talking, peeling, and chopping; they were active participants,” said Marilyn Adler, Life Enrichment Manager, Hillel Lodge. “There wasn’t a minute of hesitation. It just happened.”

The event also highlighted the collaborative spirit behind the project. Local chef Jonah Greenbaum Shinder prepared the soup in the Hillel Lodge kitchen while residents delivered their prepared ingredients downstairs, giving them the opportunity to see the process firsthand.

“I think that really drove home the feeling that we’re doing something for somebody else,” Oreck‑Wener said. “That was the mitzvah.”

Oreck‑Wener emphasized that beyond providing nourishment, the soup helps shelters stretch limited resources during a time of increasing financial pressures.

“The shelters are extremely appreciative because there are a lot of cutbacks,” she said. “This not only provides a nourishing meal, but it saves on their costs.”

She added that soup offers comfort and accessibility for women and children arriving at shelters at all hours who are fleeing domestic violence situations.

“When people come in for intake, they can throw it in the microwave and have a nice hot meal,” she said. “Soup is comfort, so it’s perfect.”

The soup itself was also a success among Hillel Lodge residents.

“It was a hit,” said Adler. “It was a tasty vegetable soup that could be appreciated by all, and there was enough soup to feed residents the next day.”

Although the initiative was initially envisioned as a one‑time event, enthusiasm from participants suggests it may become an ongoing collaboration.

The project reflects WCPP’s commitment to bringing women together to create meaningful community impact through compassion, collective action, and hands‑on philanthropy. To learn more about the Women’s Collective Philanthropy Program and the important work they do, click here.