I am writing to thank the Review for writing about our upcoming soup kitchen (“A Recipe for Community,” May 12).

As your piece notes, we’re opening up the empty store at 150 Madrone Lane from 5-7 p.m. tomorrow (May 23) to serve free soup and free music.

The event is open to anyone who lives or works on the island, and it’s designed to celebrate the fact that we’re still standing, despite multiple blows by the recession.

The reason this event is occurring, and the real news item, in my opinion, is the awe-inspiring generosity of people on the island.

Restaurateurs are donating soup, farmers are donating vegetables, small business owners are donating space and supplies, and musicians, artists, and home cooks are donating their time to make this party happen.

“Stone soup” analogies are badly overused, but I can’t resist one here.

Bainbridge Island is full of people who throw into the pot, without hesitation, because they recognize the importance in tough times like the once we are now experiencing of neighborliness and a shared meal.

On a less celebratory note, I have many friends who are struggling financially.

Several have told me they feel invisible, or worse, unwelcome on the island. I know local snobbery exists, and indeed, I’ve experienced it personally – most recently by a store owner who took me to task for bringing a soup kitchen, and the kind of people that utilize soup kitchens, near his business.

There’s not much we can do to change this attitude.

But know, if you’re reading this and you’re feeling alienated, that this condescension has stiff competition.

There is a small army of people here who relate to your troubles, share your struggles and appreciate you as neighbors.

Come on out this Saturday night and join us for some gypsy jazz and rhubarb lemonade.

Kim Hendrickson

Bainbridge Island