Board of Directors:
| A Lowell Massachusetts Charity | St. Paul’s Soup Kitchen | 501c3 |
President: Paula Forest
Dedication to this Massachusetts Charity is in the Forest bloodline. Paula’s heartfelt commitment to continue her mother’s is inspiring to all of us. Every weekday, she makes the 45 minute commute to Lowell from Natick to ensure the Soup Kitchen remains a beacon of hope for the Lowell community. She tirelessly dedicates her time and energy to serving those in need. In addition to her work at the Soup Kitchen, Paula has owned and operated her own cleaning business for over 20 years. She honors Rose’s legacy and keeps the spirit of compassion alive.
Secretary: Erin Forest
Erin Forest has actively volunteered at St. Paul’s Soup Kitchen since its inception in 1995. Inspired by her grandmother, Rose Bronk, Erin began helping out and has since become an integral part of our team. In addition to her volunteer work, Erin has served as our secretary since 2019, bringing dedication and organization to the role.
Outside of the soup kitchen, Erin teaches in the Lawrence Public Schools district, where she makes a difference in the lives of her students. Furthermore, she previously served as a Certified Lay Speaker for Centralville United Methodist Church in Lowell, demonstrating her commitment to both her faith and her community. Through her various roles, Erin continues to embody the spirit of service and compassion that defines St. Paul’s Soup Kitchen.
Treasurer: Wayne Busa
Wayne was introduced to us by his family members and has been apart of our family since 2019. Wayne is now our budgeter and our treasurer. He has co-owned a floral business for over 40 years, as well as working in the transportation departments at a few school systems. When he is not growing roses, he is supporting his local Massachusetts charity. He is passionate about helping others, as well as creating a better quality of life for all. Wayne is married to our fellow board member Heather and together they have four children and four grandchildren.
St Paul’s Board Members
Lorrie C. Arsenault
Lorrie has actively volunteered at the soup kitchen since 2003 and joined the Board in 2005. After reading an article about St. Paul’s in the Lowell Sun, she felt deeply called to support our mission and has been a dedicated advocate ever since. In addition to her work with St. Paul’s, Lorrie works with two non-profits and currently teaches English. Over the years, she has also collaborated with various non-profits focused on helping those in need, bringing a wealth of experience and compassion to her role. At St. Paul’s, Lorrie steps in wherever she is needed, whether it’s serving meals, organizing events, or offering her expertise. Above all, she feels profoundly grateful for the opportunity to make a difference in the lives of our patrons and to contribute to the community she cares so much about.
Heather M. Sykes Busa
Heather has actively volunteered at St. Paul’s since 2010 and has served as a Board member since 2012. Initially, she felt called to help through her church, which sponsors the soup kitchen. Over the years, Heather has found immense reward in attending the dinners, where she not only sees the smiles but also sometimes the tears of our patrons. Through these experiences, she firmly believes that God speaks through us as we serve. In addition to her volunteer work, Heather is a passionate florist who grew up working in her family’s floral business. During her college years, she was fortunate enough to meet her husband, Wayne, who now serves as our treasurer. Above all, Heather is a loving, doting, and devoted grandmother to four grandchildren. Her dedication to her family, her community, and her faith shines through in everything she does.
