Soup For Hope :
Research Foundation
Ovarian Cancer
A Pittsburgh 501(c)(3)
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Our
Story
Get to Know Us
Soup for Hope Corp. was founded in memory of Chef Odette Smith — a well-known Pittsburgh teacher, mentor, author, producer, and fine dining restaurant owner whose love and creativity fed both body and soul. When our family lost her, we turned grief into purpose, building a movement that blends food, art, and music to heal and uplift communities.
As a family of many colors and cultures, we understand life’s struggles firsthand. That’s why we’re dedicated to creating hope through action — from Blankets for Hope to Bowls of Soup Fundraisers — with each project honoring Odette’s legacy of compassion, creativity, and connection.
Blanket & Throw Holiday Fundraiser
Wrap of Hope Fund Raiser -Chef Odette Smith Ransome
This isn’t just a fundraiser — it’s a vibe.
A remix of compassion, love, and real community care for cancer patients in treatment.
🍲🎶 ANNOUNCEMENT: Blankets for Hope — Where Comfort Meets Soul
She fed people in a way that stayed with you long after the meal was gone.
In her honor, I’m launching the Blankets for Hope Fundraiser — giving cancer patients the same warmth, comfort, and soul she poured into this world.
We’re sourcing beautiful Jaipur Living blankets & throws that hit different — soft, warm, and full of the same energy my mother, Odette, poured into the world. She’s the reason. She’s the soundtrack behind this movement.
We’ll be handing them out personally.
As a woman-owned, ethically sourced manufacturer, Jaipur Living delivers unmatched quality, craftsmanship, and heart — making them the perfect partner for this mission.
More details dropping soon.
Let’s feed the soul of our community — Odette style. 💚💛
Let’s make HOPE go viral. 🔊💛
Chaz + + Odette's Restaurant -
Shady Side Pittsburgh
Risk Taker. Visionary. Flavor Curator.
Fine Dining by Chaz + Odette's
A soulful classic: crispy spicy wings and golden waffles kissed with Korean chili heat, finished with sweet pickled watermelon — a dish that captures Odette’s fearless, artful approach to flavor.
Photo by Heather Mull
As featured in Pittsburgh City Paper Online
About
My name is Lauren Smith
Hi, I’m Lauren Smith — Founder & Director of Soup for Hope Corp.
I started Soup for Hope in memory of my mother, Chef Odette Smith, whose passion for cooking and caring for others inspired everything I do. I’m a proud mom, creative, and community builder who believes that food, art, and music can heal hearts and bring people together.
What makes our story special is that we’re a family of many colors, cultures, and awakenings — each of us carrying a piece of hope we want to share with the world. From local drives to celebrity partnerships, our mission is simple: to nourish people, uplift spirits, and create lasting change through compassion and creativity.
Because hope — like soup — is best when it’s shared
