Turning Grief into Action: Peter Kelleher's Mission as The Soupman
I know it was heartbreak and pain that put Peter in the position that he's in, but without that, I know there's a lot of people that wouldn't be receiving the help and support that they're getting right now, and a lot of these are born out of pain.
What happens when a father channels his grief into a mission to help others? In this moving episode of 'Collateral Damage', hosts Maureen Cavanagh and Michael Wilson sit down with Peter Kelleher, known as The Soupman, to discuss his extraordinary journey. After losing his son Travis to addiction in 2016, Peter transformed his sorrow into a powerful force for good. He founded The Soupman project, dedicated to supporting homeless populations with compassion and practical aid.
Peter's story is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the impact one person can make in their community. Throughout the episode, Peter shares poignant memories of his own experiences with homelessness in Portland, highlighting the kindness he encountered and the vital role of community support. He also addresses the damaging stigmas surrounding homelessness and addiction, advocating for greater empathy and involvement at the local level.
Maureen and Michael delve into the broader implications of addiction on families and communities, emphasizing the urgent need for robust support systems. Peter's unwavering dedication shines through as he calls for action: 'If you don't want to help me, get out of my way'. His passion and commitment are truly inspiring, offering hope that even in the darkest times, we can find the strength to make a difference.
Tune in to this heartfelt episode of 'Collateral Damage' and be inspired by Peter Kelleher's journey from heartbreak to hope.