HomewardBound kicked off their first ever Soup Off fundraiser.

Contestants paid a fee for soup entries and guests paid to taste those soups. Half of the entry fees collected will go towards the winning chef and the rest will benefit the local homless shelter, HomewardBound of the Grand Valley.

Organizers say this event is focused on more than just the taste of food, but also to allow people into the space of the homeless community to see what it’s like.

“We want people to have an opportunity to experience first hand what it’s really like, because we can tell ourselves a lot of stories and most of them are inaccurate, so this is an opportunity for people to come and find out what it’s really all about, what the genuine needs are among the community and how they can plug in, people can give their time, their talent and have fun,” said Greg Moore, Executive Director of HomewardBound of the Grand Valley.

10 contestants entered the fundraiser, and the first place winners of the contest were Tony and Al of Community Hospital.