Shelly Burton, coordinator of the upcoming Portage la Prairie Soup Kitchen, shared exciting news about the project, set to open in the basement of the Highway Pentecostal Church on Saskatchewan Ave.

"We're opening May 1, we will be serving from 11:30 a.m. till 12:30 p.m. every day, Monday to Friday. We are looking for volunteers. We're looking for donations; canned soup, pots and pans, coffee cups, all of that as well."

Burton explains the menu will feature more than just soup and sandwiches.

"I won't serve anything to the patrons that I wouldn't eat myself. I don't eat soup and sandwiches every day, five days a week. We have a variety to eat in my home. We're really excited about doing a variety of meals." 

Transparency is key, with Burton promising openness about donation allocation. 

"We intend to be very transparent," Burton notes. "We are supported by Portage la Prairie businesses and individuals, and they need to know where their money is going. They will know we're paying so much for rent and food, and that will be open to the community. I want the people and businesses to know that this money is going towards the less fortunate."

With three board members currently, they hope to expand with different voices from the community.

To get involved or donate, contact Shelly Burton directly, at 204-239-4199 or 204-470-9386. She emphasizes that the team is eager to make a difference and bring hope to those in need.