Souper Troopers' motto is DIGNITY.LOVE.RESPECT, all of which are the principles founder, Kerry Hoffman has instilled in everyone associated with the Souper community from the very beginning. It is a platform for human beings to join together and assist in any way possible to make the changes we wish to see in our world from a very authentic space, believing in the philosophy of ‘doing’ not just talking.

Instead of aiming to solve this complex problem with a complex solution, we are humanizing it and keeping it simple, using human engagement as a catalyst for change, breaking barriers by creating moments of human connection.

​

They’ve built up relationships of trust and mutual respect with the homeless Troopers, many of whom run the events with them. In fact, recent events have been managed largely by homeless volunteers, whom they affectionately call Troopers or Troops.

​

Some help in the kitchen, others give haircuts, and many help with keeping an eye out, making sure everything runs smoothly. These ‘socials’ give homeless people dignity, fun, and a chance to feel and be seen as human beings rather than ‘vagrants’.  Homeless guests are invited to enjoy food, music, games, haircuts (given by the Troopers themselves), pop-up clothing ‘shops’, birthday celebrations, entertainment, toiletries and other basic necessities.  These socials provide a safe space for people who live on the street to relax, feel dignified, and socialize. The benefits of these gatherings are that barriers are broken, connections are formed and perceptions are altered.

​

When Lockdown hit Cape Town, Souper Troopers expanded their reach to include both the homeless people and those who can’t support their families. They started a fundraising campaign to enable Souper Troopers to support small organizations and community leaders who have stepped up to feed the hungry in their communities all over Cape Town’s poorer areas.

​

The Hodgson Group is proud to have supported this initiative.