Ladle-wielding elected officials exhibited the “servant” aspect of “public servant” Sunday afternoon at the sixth Annual SOUPer Bowl Lunch for the Light House Shelter.

This donation-only event, held at Heritage Baptist Church on Forest Drive, raised $2,100 in two hours.  

Maryland Speaker of the House Michael Busch, Annapolis Mayor Josh Cohen, Alderman Fred Paone and Alderwomen Shelia Finlayson and Classie Hoyle ran the soup line, filling bowls of chili, chicken noodle and baked potato soup for the crowd.

The soups, along with yeast rolls and salad, were prepared by chef Zachary Pope of Roundz Gourmet Market & Catering in Gambrills. Members of the Heritage Baptist Youth Group waited tables and assisted diners.

The dining area in the church’s fellowship hall filled to capacity, leading volunteers to set up an overflow dining area in the chapel.

Staff members and clients of the shelter also attended. Pam Siemer, director of development for the Light House, spoke to the crowd, thanking participants and providing an update on shelter events.

The Light House is a nonprofit organization providing shelter, food, clothing and job training to homeless individuals and families, as well as those who are at risk of becoming homeless.

Heritage Baptist is a member of the Annapolis Area Ministries, which supports the Light House.

“This was a great afternoon,” said the Rev. Henry Green, of Heritage Baptist. “There was a real community spirit in the air. The Light House shelter does a wonderful job at addressing the crucial needs for so many people in our area. We want to do everything we possibly can to support this work.”