$1 million will help organization continue altruistic legacy
SAGINAW, Mich., Oct. 9, 2024 — State Rep. Amos O’Neal (D-Saginaw) took part in an event today that celebrated the $1 million investment allocated in this year’s state budget to Saginaw’s East Side Soup Kitchen.
“Over 45 years, the East Side Soup Kitchen has changed many, many lives in Saginaw. What a blessing it is for our hometown. It provides nutritious meals each weekday to anyone, without question or qualification. This inclusive, no-questions-asked atmosphere cultivates a place where everyone is welcome — giving friendliness without fear of judgment,” said O’Neal, vice chair of the House Appropriations Committee. “It was such an honor to attend today’s event, and I know so many people will be impacted for the better with these investments.”
The soup kitchen does much more than provide food. It provides opportunities for medical care and other resources. Twice a month, a dental and medical bus visits the organization. This provides community members the opportunity to get the medical services they need to keep them healthy and strong, when affordability or accessibility could be a challenge. It also provides resources for HIV or AIDS counseling and testing.
“I’m so glad to have spent such quality time with such wonderful people today — a delicious meal and a great cause. It can’t get much better than that,” O’Neal said. “I send my thanks to all those at the soup kitchen who made today possible; your hard work does not go unnoticed or unappreciated.”