OSWEGO — The Richard S. Shineman Foundation is the presenting sponsor of United Way of Greater Oswego County’s annual Stone Soup Luncheon, scheduled for Tuesday, Nov. 3, 2026, from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at the Oswego Elks Lodge, 132 W. Fifth Street, according to a United Way news release.
The luncheon began as a social event bringing together individuals, agencies and businesses to increase awareness of hunger in Oswego County. It has grown into a fundraiser and food drive that local agencies rely on.
Patrick Dewine, United Way executive director, said all profits and nonperishable food donations from the event will be divided among several local food relief programs that provide food for hundreds of individuals.
“We are asking people to come together to help end hunger,” said Dewine. “United Way’s purpose for this event is to shine a light on the very real issue of food insecurity in our county, and will generate resources to support agencies that are providing food to families in need.”
When United Way approached the Shineman Foundation about working together to make a broader impact, Foundation Director Chena Tucker welcomed the opportunity.
“Our food pantries do incredible work, yet too many people in Oswego County still struggle to access the food they need,” said Tucker. “This partnership aligns with our work through the Oswego County Food Security Alliance—bringing partners together, strengthening local resources, and finding practical ways to close gaps in food access. We are happy to support this effort because we know we can accomplish more when we work together.”
Helen Hoefer, a United Way board member and Stone Soup Luncheon chairperson, has led the planning committees for several years.
“We are happy to support food relief programs through this event. With the success of this luncheon, we see the direct impact that this event’s profits and collected food will have to help meet the needs in the community,” said Hoefer.
The menu will feature eight varieties of soup donated by Brittney’s, Canale’s, Press Box, GS Steamer’s, Kristen’s Kitchen, The Desens House, Oswego Elks Lodge and the Oswego Fire Department, along with salad, rolls and dessert from area businesses. Guests will be able to vote for their favorite soup, and the Golden Ladle Award will be presented to the winning soup provider.
“The amount of community support over the years for this event has been unbelievable,” said Dewine. “We truly appreciate how many local entities continue to step up to make this luncheon possible, and how many volunteers offer their time to make the day a success.”
United Way will accept a donation of $5 per person. Attendees are urged to bring nonperishable food items to donate. Those unable to attend who would like to make a donation may call United Way of Greater Oswego County at 315-593-1900, extension 4. More information is available at oswegounitedway.org.
Photo caption: Representatives of United Way’s Stone Soup Committee gathered to thank the Richard S. Shineman Foundation for supporting the upcoming luncheon. Pictured with Shineman Foundation Executive Director Chena Tucker, center, are United Way Executive Director Patrick Dewine; committee members Helen Hoefer and Teresa Manniccia; Dean Wright of The Desens House; Oswego Fire Department Captain John Geraci; and Jim Oldenburg of Oswego Elks Lodge. Photo supplied by United Way of Greater Oswego County.
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