Empty Bowls returns to Union County March 15

Union County residents will soon have a chance to fight hunger — one bowl at a time.

IMPACT 60 is preparing for its second annual Empty Bowls Project Community Meal on March 15, 2026, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Bistro '52 inside Memorial Hospital. Organizers hope to welcome about 400 guests.

The event debuted locally last year and raised just over $30,000 for food-assistance efforts.

The fundraiser is part of a larger nationwide Empty Bowls movement designed to both support local charities and raise awareness about food insecurity.

Locally, organizers say the need is real — many children and teens in Union County live in households that struggle to consistently afford meals.

"The primary goal of Empty Bowls is to raise funds for local food charities and create awareness about poverty and hunger," said Chelsea Hatton, Community Engagement Coordinator with IMPACT 60.

"We want to give families a hand-up and help fill the food gap."

Tickets cost $35 and are available online at: https://givebutter.com/c/Ohiounioncoemptybowls

Proceeds benefit local hunger-relief efforts across Union County.