SOUP KITCHEN - Key Persons


Chris Russell

Job Titles:
  • Member of the Board

Debbie Armstrong - Treasurer

Job Titles:
  • Treasurer

Devin McDowell

Job Titles:
  • Member of the Board

Marla Portfilio

Job Titles:
  • Human Resources
Marla was born and raised in the Niagara Region and currently lives in Niagara Falls. She attended Niagara College and Brock University and has worked in the areas of human resources, student services and human rights and equity, including working at Brock University, Sheridan College and the City of St. Catharines. Marla is passionate about social justice and serving her community. She is the proud mother of two teenagers and an avid runner.

Nancy Tester

Job Titles:
  • Member of the Board
Nancy has an extensive background in marketing and finance. She has been

Rosemary Girardo

Job Titles:
  • Leader at Niagara Casinos
Rosemary has been a long time resident of Niagara Falls, sharing her passion and drive for volunteering for various not-for-profits. She is well versed in food rescue and matching organizations with others that are also those in need. She is a well-respected member of the community. Rosemary has been a passionate leader at Niagara Casinos for over 24 years, having been recognized multiple times for her philanthropist efforts within the community. She is a mother to 2 amazing sons. But her favourite role is grandma, where she teaches her grandchildren how to bake and have fun!

Tanya Bateman

Job Titles:
  • Secretary
In 2004, Tanya joined Niagara Casinos - she is currently a Beverage

Teresa Howell

Teresa was born in Edmonton, Alberta but has lived in Niagara Falls, Ontario the majority of her life. She attended Stamford Collegiate High School and went on to play University Basketball at Providence College & Seminary School in Manitoba. When she returned to Niagara, she worked in various restaurants before she began her employment with Niagara Casinos. Teresa then went on to study Wine Marketing and Management with Niagara College, Safe Food Handling courses and numerous Leadership courses. She is now the Restaurant Manager for Lev2l Restaurant at Casino Niagara. Teresa began volunteering with Niagara Falls Community Outreach in 2015, helping with food deliveries from local businesses. She is also on the Responsible Gaming Committee for Niagara Casinos. Teresa has two stepchildren of her own and is now a grandmother to two beautiful grandsons. She is still very active in organized sports and enjoys her time at the Soup Kitchen meeting new faces.