For students interested in giving back while staying connected with Join Us Making Progress (JUMP) should look into Serving Our Underfed People Everyday Re-Packaging (SOUP-ER). SOUP-ER is a program that focuses on repackaging leftover food from the Sonoma State Cafeteria to be donated to the Orenda Center, a local drug and addiction rehabilitation center in Santa Rosa. 

The Orenda center, also known as the Drug Abuse Alternatives Center, is a substance abuse residential rehab facility that provides treatment to people who have drug or substance addictions. 

SOUP-ER is run by Mikayla Martin, sustainability coordinator for JUMP. She is very passionate about the program and believes that just one person can make big changes in the world by just giving back. Martin explains the process of SOUP-ER and how it works.

“…The food is provided for by SSU Kitchen’s Staff members and comes to us on one or more carts of food containing various untouched food items in metal food bins,” said Martin. “During the program, we transfer that food into our plastic reusable food containers to be placed on the carts and then stored into the Kitchen’s freezer. The food is then picked up the following day by an Orenda Center kitchen staff member. Unlike other JUMP programs, we do not directly see the people whose lives we impact. Our contact at the Orenda Center definitely informs me that our food is delicious and very much appreciated!” 

Martin talks about how it’s a great opportunity for students to join the program if they are interested in expanding their network, bonding with peers who have the same interest, and enjoy protecting the environment.

“…I am a part of this program because I am passionate about food and protecting the environment,” said Martin. “This program allows me to be a leader on campus, allowing students to understand the importance of implementing sustainable methods into our community, especially our food systems. Getting involved with JUMP has helped me develop professional skills and given me a chance to grow a stronger community.” 

Martin continues to talk about some of her favorite things about the program and some benefits that you can receive from the program. Martin said, “My favorite things about this program are seeing full carts of packaged food, that I know would otherwise be discarded, being redirected to help vulnerable populations. It is always amazing to see how much food is saved in just one hour of program. This program also allows me to get to know other SSU students better and encourages a greater network of friends within our campus community.”

 Although students and faculty involved do not interact with the people directly impacted, The main contact at the Orenda Center always informs Martin that the food is delicious and very much appreciated.  

Students are encouraged to join JUMP programs to gain personal and professional experience that can be used in many different areas in the future. Those who are interested in the joy of giving back and being a part of this JUMP program can contact Mikayla Martin directly at [email protected]. The program also meets every Monday night from 7:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. in the cafeteria, at the Student Center couches.