Beating food insecurity one bowl at a time

Union County residents helped raise nearly $50,000 to battle food insecurity.

The annual Empty Bowls event generated $45,549 in gross proceeds this year, drawing about 230 attendees and support from 10 sponsors.

The community effort included 46 volunteers, 56 gallons of donated soup and 62 silent auction items, which alone brought in $8,865.

Organizers with Impact 60 say 70 businesses and individuals contributed in-kind donations valued at more than $40,000.

Attendees also took home 290 handcrafted bowls created by professional artists, along with 350 servings of chef-prepared bread and rolls.

Why it matters

Local food pantries continue to see steady demand, and events like this help close the gap.

A simple meal, shared together, is helping put food on the table for neighbors in need.