For more than a decade, Hempstead County residents have supported feeding the hungry through contributions of non-perishable food to the Souper Bowl of Caring. This year’s collection will be Friday, January 31, noon to 5 p.m., and Saturday, February 1, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. The collection site is the parking lot at 611 South Main Street, Hope.

“Though, the Souper Bowl of Caring collection is sponsored by First Presbyterian Church, participation crosses any denominational lines, and is truly a community wide effort,” according to the Rev. Kathleen Hignight, pastor of the church. “This is the 30th year of the movement which began when a church youth group wanted to do something to help the hungry in their community. They thought that they could tie in the enthusiasm for the Super Bowl with their desire to help others. They picked the name ‘Souper Bowl of Caring’ and it stuck. Their meager beginnings became a nationwide movement.”

In the past, the event has taken in close to 900 pounds of food, and more than a $1,000 in contributions. All the proceeds go to Hope-in-Action. Contributions of can goods or other not-perishable items are welcome; all donations need to be in original, sealed containers.