The Alzheimer Society of Simcoe County is inviting residents to bring their appetites — and their vote — to a new community fundraiser designed to raise money and awareness for people living with dementia.
The event, called Soup's On, takes place Sunday, March 29, at the Barrie Legion. For $25 at the door, attendees can sample soups from local restaurants and businesses before casting a ballot for the region’s best bowl.
Listen below to our Soup's On interview with Alzheimers Society's Jamie Grant. It's at the 54:08 mark.
While the event promises plenty of fun and friendly competition, Alzheimers Society representative Jamie Grant says the cause behind it is urgent and close to home.
“We currently have 11,500 people right here in our community that are impacted by dementia right now,” she told Barrie 360. “I really believe that that number is underreported due to the stigma attached to that number.”
A Delicious Competition With Local Impact
Several well‑known local businesses have stepped ladle‑first into the contest, many of them playfully sparring on social media as they perfect their recipes. Grant highlighted a few early standouts: State & Maine, Kennedy's Lakeside Grocery, Cravings, Poppi's, The Cove Cafe, Aspera Waterford, and the Ladies Auxiliary.
Three categories are up for judging: creamiest soup, heartiest soup, and best vegetarian soup. A panel of judges will select the winners, with official judging set for 1 p.m., but attendees also play a role through a public vote.
Grant joked she’s preparing for a crowd: “I ordered 1,800 sampling bowls. I do not want to be eating all that soup on my own, so please join me.”
Funds Stay Local
Money raised from the event will support the Society’s free local services, many of which currently have waitlists due to demand. These include one‑on‑one support, caregiver programs, education sessions, and social programs for people living with dementia.
“When you donate to your local Alzheimer’s Society… the funds actually stay locally,” Grant emphasized. “They don't go to Ontario or Canada‑wide. They stay right here close to home.”
While the organization hopes for a solid fundraising total, Grant says the biggest goal is visibility.
“The money, although it's very important… it's even more important for people to come out and remove that stigma,” she said.
More Events Ahead
The Society is also preparing for its well‑known Walk for Alzheimer’s, returning May 31 at Springwater Provincial Park. Registration for the walk is available online, and participants are encouraged to collect pledges.
Event Details: Soups On
- Date: Sunday, March 29
- Time: 11 a.m. – 2 p.m.
- Location: Barrie Legion
- Tickets: $25 at the door
- Activities: Soup tasting, public vote, judged competition
More information about Soups On, the Walk for Alzheimer’s, and support services can be found at alzheimer.ca/simcocounty and through the Society’s social media channels.
