Empty Bowls fundraisers support local aid programs

Communities in Mississippi, Florida, New York, Saskatchewan and Florida’s Keystone Heights held or prepared annual Empty Bowls events to raise money for local assistance programs. In Hattiesburg, proceeds from the fundraiser support a food pantry serving about 2,000 households monthly, while Manatee County’s event benefits hunger and nutrition programs amid rising demand. Rochester’s fundraiser supports Catholic Charities programs addressing hunger and poverty, and the Keystone event benefits the Lakes Area Ministries Food Pantry. In Moose Jaw, Square One Community used its fundraiser to support staffing so it can expand supportive housing for people facing homelessness; about 70 people are on its wait list. Across the events, guests share meals and take home handmade bowls, with proceeds directed to local needs.