The Salvation Army’s Annual Soup Bowl Is Returning to New Bedford

The Salvation Army's annual Soup Bowl event is taking place Sunday, October 18, from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. at The Vault Music Hall & Pub, located at 791 Purchase Street in New Bedford. Captain Raquel Muniz stopped by Townsquare Sunday to talk about the event, organized by the Salvation Army and an enthusiastic group of volunteers.

What to Expect at Soup Bowl 2026

"The Soup Bowl is a fundraiser that's held every year," Muniz said. "Those who purchase a ticket can come in and enjoy a myriad of delicious soups provided to us by local restaurants, have a good time, and support a good cause."

"It's a blessing that these restaurants have come forward to be a part of our mission to help people in our local community," she said.

Tickets for the all-you-can-eat event are $50 and can be purchased at the Salvation Army headquarters at 619 Purchase Street or on the Salvation Army website.

The Soup Bowl event is special because you are helping an organization that helps thousands of needy people every year. You can also take home the bowl.

Handcrafted UMass Dartmouth Ceramic Bowls and Entertainment

Muniz explained these are not just any bowls. "UMass Dartmouth students make these glazed, ceramic bowls," she said. "These are not cookie-cutter bowls. They are all different sizes with beautiful colors, and people will be able to take them home."

Soup Bowl 2026 will also feature raffle drawings with some great prizes and live music.

a couple of people holding a bowl of food

How Your Support Helps Greater New Bedford Residents

Muniz said money raised by the Soup Bowl is used to provide vital services to needy and homeless people in Greater New Bedford. Those services include a bag of food for someone who knocks on their door. "Every Wednesday, at least 250 people receive a bag of food at the Salvation Army, and that number appears to be rising," Muniz said.

The Salvation Army also operates a Monday-Friday soup kitchen, provides opportunities for kids from needy families to attend one week of summer camp, and distributes toys to hundreds of needy families at Christmas every year.

If you are interested in volunteering or making a donation to the Salvation Army of New Bedford, please call (508) 997-6561.

More Than 140 Years of Service in New Bedford

The Salvation Army has been in New Bedford since 1885. "The Salvation Army is invested in this community," Muniz said. "When people visit our building there is a warmth there, there's hope, it's a place for people to come to when they need a hand."

If you would like your nonprofit agency featured on Townsquare Sunday, please email the host at jim.phillips@townsquaremedia.com.