Many know Peter Kelleher as the Founder and CEO of Support the Soupman. After losing his son Travis to a drug overdose in September 2016 while living on the streets of Bangor, Maine, he began a mission to help the homeless living in New England.

 

For five years, Peter's drive and commitment helped Support the Soupman build a fleet of two buses, a cargo van, three showers, a food trailer, a massive warehouse of supplies, and a volunteer force of more than 600. Sponsors and donors made it possible for Support the Soupman to reach as far north as Bangor, Maine, and as far south as New Haven, CT and everything in between.

 

He had been battling alcohol addiction for most of his life. Several attempts were made to get him help, but the loss of Travis exacerbated Peter's demons, which he buried by serving and clothing the homeless as much as possible. Because of the constant and rapid growth of Support the Soupman, Peter never carved out any time to address the root of his drinking problem. Like most addicts, denial was another obstacle that was equally difficult to overcome. Addiction eventually catches up to you and often at a heavy price.

 

Peter issued a public statement to alert his supporters and you may read it here . The present Board essentially forced Peter to resign. They feel Peter's addiction to alcohol put the non-profit in a problematic situation. Peter was not formally asked to leave, but the overwhelmingly tense work environment - forced Peter to choose his sobriety over a volatile work situation.

 

In late February, Peter entered a 45-day rehab program and is committed to maintaining his sobriety. This is his number one goal. Since leaving rehab, Peter and his board have been at odds. Peter is deeply concerned that (1) the mission was not carried out during his absence, (2) has remained inoperable since his return, and (3) the warehouse and all Soupman assets have sat idle since February 2022. Peter was terminated as President/CEO and no longer receives a salary, the board took ownership of the truck, and the warehouse locks changed. (This was all done during Peter's absence).

 

Part of the battle with homelessness is the addiction that leads many down that path. Peter's mission was to help those dealing with homelessness. Something Peter is now himself facing. It is very concerning that an organization that espouses compassion and empathy for the homeless would not do everything in its power to prevent its founder from becoming homeless.

 

A grassroots movement of those who have supported Peter and his organization for the last five years is combining forces to get Peter back on his feet. We are running a GoFundMe to help raise funds for Peter to locate and pay for new housing. Peter has filed for unemployment with the State of MA, and the process could last another 30-45 days. Peter has been served an eviction notice from his landlord, and his utilities are scheduled to be turned off.

 

We are advocating to keep Peter off the streets - the money raised will go into an account to ensure that goal is met. (Typically, first, last, and security deposits in MA average $6000. Utility restoration after a turn-off will require $1000.00 per utility.) It is time for us to help Peter, who has helped many over the years.

The funds will be deposited into a bank account that Peter does not manage and will be used to write the necessary checks for rent deposits and utilities.  They will be written when there is a lease to be executed and utilities to set up in Peter's name. 

Any monies raised beyond the $15,000 will go to another New England charity to support the homeless. Feel free to submit any recommendations when you make your contribution.