The annual Soup and Bread fundraiser for Beds Plus was another sold-out event Sunday, Feb. 2, at the Holiday Inn Countryside, drawing a crowd that exceeded expectations.
Beds Plus, a nonprofit dedicated to helping vulnerable individuals in southwest Cook County stabilize their lives through housing and supportive services, saw a record turnout.
“This is our 13th year doing this,” said Erin Molek, Beds Plus development manager. “We sold 500 tickets, but there are 750 people here. We thank all of our vendors, volunteers and contributors for their support.”
The event featured 22 soup stations, offering a variety of flavors alongside sandwiches, beverages, and, of course, soft bread to complement the meal.
Entertainment included performances by the August James Band and The Vaughan Building on the Rockpile Strategies Main Stage. Meanwhile, Crows of Furey and Open Mic Night performers played on the FNBC Bank Stage in the Terrace Room. Marko the Roving Magician also entertained attendees.
A silent auction featured highly sought-after items, including a Disney vacation package at Saratoga Springs, a Colorado mountain retreat in Silverthorne, a diamond necklace from Linnea Jewelers, and a St. Augustine/Vilano Beach getaway, among dozens of other prizes. All proceeds benefited Beds Plus.
“There are delicious soups here to choose from,” said Arzie Baolovski, owner of The Works Hideout in Summit. “We have our chicken dumpling soup, and people are really enjoying it. We are happy to return to this event for a great cause.
“As a restaurant owner, it’s crucial to help out the community and assist people in times of need. I love looking for ways to be an active and supportive member of the community. I care about the well-being of others, and will always support BedsPlus and the amazing things they do within their foundation.
“It’s important to use my platform as a business owner to sponsor local events like this, and to form a sense of unity and cooperation among community members.
“Food acts as a unifying force to bring people together, and strengthen the fabric of the community. Chicken soup is good for the soul!”
Other featured soups included:
- Beef barley from Buck’s Pit Stop in Hodgkins
- Soubise-cream and cognac onion with Gruyère from Marco’s Kitchen in La Grange
- Roasted pepper and potato from the Stadium Club
- Minestrone from Antonino’s Ristorante
- Abuela’s chicken tortilla from Beach Avenue BBQ
- Smoky sweet potato from Blackberry Market La Grange
- Egg drop from Chi Tung
- Pasta fagioli from Capri Ristorante Italiano
- Chicken andouille sausage gumbo from Chuck’s Southern Comforts Cafe
- Cauliflower from Fourteensixteen
- Cheese tortellini and spinach in Parmesan broth from Gravylady
- Polish chicken noodle from Happier Now Cafe and Market
- Tomato bisque from HMD Bar and Grill
- Corned beef and cabbage from Irish Times
- Lobster bisque from Kama Bistro
- Lasagna soup from Krispies Sweet and Savory Shoppe
- Broccoli cheddar from Ledo’s Pizza
- Avgolemono from Mana
- Cream of roasted jalapeño from Mary’s Morning Mix Up
- Cream of mushroom from Prasino
- Cuban black bean from Steak and Vine
The event also featured craft beer, wine, and signature drinks.
Summit Mayor Sergio Rodriguez praised the fundraiser’s impact.
“This is a great event for Beds Plus, which does important work in our community,” Rodriguez said. “There are plenty of soup choices to enjoy while gathering with others for a great cause.”
