Souper bowls Victoria fundraiser keeps at-risk youth warm and dry
Published 8:51 am Wednesday, September 23, 2026
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A Victoria businessman is challenging peers to pledge what they can to a youth organization he credits with providing him a pathway as a youngster.
“(Victoria Youth Empowerment Society) gave me a safe place when I had nowhere to go. I believe they saved me,” said Mike De Palma. “Giving back is personal for me. I’m asking Victoria businesses to pledge what they can, because every dollar helps a young person in our community.”
The owner of Flintstones Pro pledged $25,000 toward the society’s annual Souper Bowls of Hope, its largest fundraiser that targets $65,000.
Guests at Souper Bowls of Hope enjoy homemade soup, hear from youth supported by the empowerment society, and take home a handcrafted bowl made by local potters. Proceeds support the Victoria Youth Employment Society’s programs for at-risk youth.
“Mike’s story shows what’s possible when a young person has a safe place, and people who believe in them,” executive director Julie-Ann Hunter said. “His pledge and his challenge will help us reach more youth when they need us most.”
The society supports more than 1,000 youth and families across Greater Victoria and the Southern Gulf Islands each year. Its services range from meeting basic needs, including meals, clothing and emergency shelter through the Kiwanis Emergency Youth Shelter, to youth and family counselling, life skills, mental health and substance use support, outreach and supported independent living. With three sites and more than 80 staff, it offers prevention, early intervention, crisis response and ongoing support, including the Kiwanis Emergency Youth Shelter, the Alliance Club (Helen’s Place) and the Youth Food Pantry.
The Victoria Youth Empowerment Society Souper Bowls of Hope is Thursday, Oct. 29 at the Union Club of British Columbia, 805 Gordon St.
Visit vyes.ca/souper-bowls-of-hope for ticket information.
About the Author: Christine van Reeuwyk
Do you have a Greater Victoria story to share? Send me a tip at christine.vanreeuwyk@blackpress.ca