Honoring the Salvation Army for their culinary job-training program, "Soup's On!"

WHEREAS, In December of 2000 the Salvation Army launched the “Soup's On!” program; and

WHEREAS, “Soup's On!” has been designed as a self-supporting program that prepares women and men for careers in foodservice, so they in turn can become self-sufficient; and

WHEREAS, Under the direction of program leader Arlene “Wiggy” Olson six students at a time take a twelve week course for four days a week on the art of making delicious soups, sandwiches and desserts; and

WHEREAS, Every week the students produce approximately two hundred gallons of gourmet soup that is sold at a variety of restaurants and stores throughout the Delaware Valley; and

WHEREAS, As a result of the extensive hands on training through the “Soup's On!” program, the students, many who are transitioning from welfare to work, are able to obtain quality positions in the food service industry; and

WHEREAS, Since the program has started twenty five students have graduated from the program, all of whom were placed in well paying jobs, and all of whom are still employed; and

WHEREAS, “Soup's On!” is a model job training program that has provided real results for Philadelphians; now therefore

RESOLVED, BY THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PHILADELPHIA, That we hereby honor the Salvation Army for their culinary job-training program, “Soup's On!”

FURTHER RESOLVED, That an Engrossed copy of this resolution be presented to Arlene “Wiggy” Olson for her hard work and efforts to improve the lives of her students, as evidence of the sincere sentiments of this legislative body.

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