A variety of beautiful bowls from previous Soup Per Bowl events along with new pieces from Michigan artist Jon Whitney will be available this year.

Flint-area homeless individuals will join with Genesee County residents and University of Michigan-Flint Social Work Department staff and students to celebrate the Third Annual Soup Per Bowl on Friday, Feb. 5 from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at St. Michael’s Catholic Church, located at 609 East Fifth Ave. downtown Flint.

This year’s Soup Per Bowl includes spoken word performances, upbeat music, a Best Soup Contest with local celebrity judges, a chance to win prizes and auction. For $5, community members can taste several varieties of soups. For $15, they can purchase a ceramic bowl, which includes soup, dessert, and a beverage.

“Come and celebrate the spirit of the community,” said Todd Womack, UM-Flint Social Work advisor and lecturer. “Sometimes when we engage in celebrations like the Super Bowl, we unintentionally exclude others. This community and this event is inclusive.”

Event contributions will be used to fund food, supplies, and other necessities that keep the Center for Hope’s Warming Center open for those in need. The Warming Center is a welcoming place for many in Flint to escape the cold.

Jon Whitney, a potter from Mason, made a variety of beautiful bowls for this year’s event, which were supported by Sarah Lippert, UM-Flint Associate Professor of Art History. His pottery is intended for functional, everyday use, and each bowl is unique.

Bottled water donations will also be accepted at the event. All water donations will go directly to people who utilize the Center for Hope.

The Soup Per Bowl is made possible through a partnership with the University of Michigan Social Work Department, Metro Community Development and Catholic Charities of Shiawassee and Genesee Counties. Members of the UM-Flint Social Work Club also participate each year.