On Thursday evening, 25 April, I walked into the Nieuwe Kerk, to experience the community gathering at Buurtbelsoep. This monthly event, happening every fourth Thursday from 6:00 PM to 7:30 PM, brings neighbors together over a simple meal of soup. The soup, always vegetarian, shows that everyone is welcome at Buurtbelsoep, regardless of their dietary preferences. Even though paying for the meal is optional, many people come eagerly, showing how much they value sharing meals with their neighbors. Ingredients for the soup are sourced using vouchers from Jumbo supermarket, supplemented by funds from the Gemeente Utrecht, ensuring that the event remains accessible to all members of the community.

After dinner, there are games from 7:00 PM to 9:30 PM, where people can have fun and enjoy each other’s company even more. A dedicated team of volunteers, including interns, organize and prepare for Buurtbelsoep each month. From cooking the soup to setting up the games evening, their efforts ensure that the event runs smoothly.

In conversation with one of the organizers, I learned about Buurtbelsoep’s commitment to promoting health and well-being within the community. Despite challenges such as the high cost of organic food due to heavy taxation, organizers would like to explore healthy solutions like collective gardening in the neighborhood to provide more nutritious and sustainable options to attendees.

Leaving Buurtbelsoep, I could feel the sense of community it provides. It brings people together, focusing on well being and inclusivity, while promoting health and sustainability.