Soupfest dishes up support for Robbie Dean Centre

Written by Patricia Leboeuf

Monique Yashinskie and Jay Baker were happy to see so many people turn out for the March 4 event. While the Pembroke Business Improvement Area (PBIA) organized Soupfest, the Robbie Dean Family Counselling Centre was the beneficiary of the fundraiser.

Soupfest served up ‘hot’ competition while raising funds for the Robbie Dean Counselling Centre.

Organized by the Pembroke Business Improvement Area (PBIA), the March 4 event at the Pembroke Farmers’ Market proved so popular it was sold out. And despite the winter weather, participants turned out to enjoy the savoury offerings before casting votes for their favourite. Attendees were also treated to music by Christian Whelan.

The winner of Soupfest’s coveted Golden Ladle was Nomada Tacos, confirmed volunteer Jay Baker.

Funds from the event, totalling $790, went to the centre’s Peer Paint Counselling, which is similar to traditional art therapy but without the facilitation of a therapist.

“The idea is to hopefully expose people to the coping mechanism, which is painting,” said the centre’s founder and Executive Director, Monique Yashinskie.

Art can be intensely therapeutic.

“I started painting in the nighttime, and I find that it quiets my mind and regulates my moods,” said Baker, who created the Peer Paint Counselling sessions. “It helps me, so hopefully, it will help other people as well.

Competitors at Soupfest included Little Things Canning Co., Nomada Tacos, Thai Gardens, AtZaffran, LOAF Artisan Bakery, Anthony’s Italian Grill, The Nook Creperie, Zaytouna, Janna & Kerry’s, Madawaska Coffee Co. and The Bonanza.

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