Bellevue High School's cherished tradition, "Soup 4 Simpson," once again brought the community together this April, marking its 20th anniversary with record-breaking success. This heartwarming fundraiser, held annually in the school’s cafeteria, filled the room with the comforting aroma of soup and the inspiring spirit of generosity.

The event honors the legacy of Hunter Simpson, a former BHS student who, despite battling a brain tumor, spent his final year saving his meal-plan money to help the homeless. Hunter ate small cups of soup each day so that he could donate his savings to New Horizons, a Seattle-based nonprofit that aids youth transitioning out of homelessness. Hunter was also a recipient of the Make-A-Wish Foundation but chose to use his wish to furnish New Horizons' shelter space instead of benefiting himself. Since his passing in 2005, Bellevue High School has kept Hunter's compassionate mission alive through this special event, serving thousands of bowls of soup and raising over $100,000 to support New Horizons.

This year's Soup 4 Simpson fundraiser exceeded expectations in celebration of the event's 20th anniversary. Students, teachers, and community members came together to enjoy a variety of soups prepared by volunteers, with some local restaurants even donating ingredients to enhance the offerings. Music, cookies, and a strong sense of togetherness made the event a memorable highlight of the school year.

The Soup 4 Simpson board, made up of dedicated students and faculty members, worked tirelessly in the weeks leading up to the event. Board members visited classrooms to share Hunter's story and encourage their peers to volunteer. From cooking the soup to setting up the cafeteria and serving guests, dozens of volunteers came together to ensure the event's success.

In addition to the in-person event, Soup 4 Simpson embraced digital donations to expand its reach. Supporters who couldn’t attend were encouraged to contribute online through Bellevue High School’s website, ensuring that anyone inspired by Hunter's story could make a difference.

The funds raised this year will provide essential resources to New Horizons, including meals, hygiene supplies, and job readiness programs for youth in King County. With an estimated 5,000 to 10,000 young people facing homelessness annually in the region, every dollar raised plays a crucial role in helping these individuals build a brighter future.

As Soup 4 Simpson enters its third decade, the Bellevue High School community remains committed to carrying forward Hunter Simpson's powerful legacy of compassion. Each bowl of soup served is a reminder that one person's kindness can ignite a lasting movement of generosity, hope, and change.