Montague couple start new soup kitchen at church

Tuesday was the first day for the new soup kitchen at the Montague Church of Christ.

It was started by a couple from the church, Velda and Shane White.

"We just wanted to reach out to the community, to those who need that little boost up, it's not much, but it's a start," said Shane White.

It is starting out small, offering one meal once a week, each Tuesday.

The couple spent the day mixing, peeling and slicing for hours, getting ready for the first supper, fresh, home-made bread and vegetable soup.

It was the White's dream, but they say it's only coming together because of volunteers offering to help with cooking and with cash.

Monday, when Velda White realized she only had $27 in her bank account to buy some supplies, her mother offered her help.

"She purchased everything, everything that we needed yesterday for today," said Velda White. "Yeah, it's overwhelming the support that we've got so far."

They prepared enough for 100 people for the first meal, although they really didn't know how many to expect.

"Whatever is left over, people are taking it out the door with you," said Velda. "We don't want anything going week to week, it will be provided for the next week, for sure."

The couple hopes to see the soup kitchen grow to serve meals several times a week.

They want everyone to feel welcome, regardless of religion, or how much money is in their pocket.

"If they're having a hard time making ends meet, here's a meal you don't have to pay for," said Shane White. "If you want some company, if you're lonely, if you just want fellowship with people, come on out."