The Belfast Soup Kitchen is holding its first annual Brewhaha, a festive and family-friendly fundraiser and 15th Anniversary Celebration aimed at combating food insecurity in Waldo County. The event will take place Saturday, Oct. 4, 2025, from 12 to 5 p.m., at the Belfast Soup Kitchen, 31 Belmont Ave., in Belfast.

"Food insecurity remains a critical issue in Maine, and especially in our Waldo County community," said the soup kitchen. "A staggering one in three seniors faces hunger, and a recent study found that 87% of households seeking food assistance include a child, senior, or person with a disability. In Waldo County, one in five children (21.5%) experience food insecurity. This event aims to raise awareness and crucial funds to sustain the Belfast Soup Kitchen’s mission and expand its vital services to meet growing needs in the community. In 2024, the Belfast Soup Kitchen provides services to over 8,000 Waldo County residents, accounting for 20% of the County's population - and 2025 is shaping up to be even busier."

Brewhaha will feature a variety of activities for all ages. Guests can enjoy live music by Anni and the Rainmakers and food, including $10 Bratwurst or BBQ Pork meals, with a free hot dog for kids. Vegetarian options will also be available.

The day's highlights include a special meet and greet and book signing with local author Jessica Libby and Bangor K9 Jesi. For a $30 minimum donation, guests can receive a signed copy of Jesi’s first book. A photo booth, generously donated by Stanley Chevrolet, will also be on-site for guests to capture the moment. Additional attractions include face painting, pumpkin painting, and a silent auction featuring donations from local businesses and artisans.

The Harvesting Hope silent auction will be live online two weeks prior to the event, allowing those who are unable to attend in person to participate.

Local businesses are invited to partner in making this event a success through silent auction donations and event sponsorships.

For more information, please contact sage@belfastsoupkitchen.org.

Founded on the belief that everyone deserves access to nutritious food, dignity, and respect, the Belfast Soup Kitchen is dedicated to alleviating hunger in Waldo County. It provides a warm, welcoming place for those in need, serving as a pillar of support for the community. The organization looks forward to this event as an opportunity to celebrate with and thank its community.