The resurrected Empty Bowls event could be larger than its earlier fundraisers, according to new organizers who have gathered added support and added another food bank/shelter that will benefit from the proceeds.
The event Feb. 1 at the Central Middle School cafeteria at 725 Seventh St. now includes 10 to 15 different churches, groups, organizations, and agencies working together, said Sarah Sanders, a member of the organizing committee.
And the night featuring a meal and music now will benefit six local food pantries and shelters: Horizon House, Thrive Alliance, Turning Point Domestic Violence Services, The Salvation Army, Community Center of Hope food pantry and Love Chapel and Brighter Days emergency shelter.
"We had a short time to learn the ropes and plan this event, so we haven’t set any lofty goals," Sanders said. "But, given the number of participant organizations, I do think it will be a big event."
Also, organizers have arranged for dementia-friendly dining for an hour before the community-wide meal begins. Black Tie Optional, a five-member local band playing classics from as far back as the 1950s through hits of the 2000s along with jazz favorites, will provide entertainment.
Since the previous organizing committee leaders announced a decision in October to step aside and tackle other responsibilities and projects, others have stepped forward to ensure that the event will go on rather than be canceled.
But some previous volunteers also are part of the organizers.
Organizers — cooks of soups, chilis, breads, and desserts, artists making homemade bowls, a small army of behind-the-scenes volunteers, students, musicians and others — make the event happen. Last year’s gathering raised more than $18,000 for pantries at Love Chapel, Horizon House homeless shelter, Community Center of Hope, Turning Point Domestic Violence Services, and Thrive Alliance.
Through the years, Empty Bowls has raised more than $200,000, according to organizers. Local artist Robert Pulley launched the event, a spinoff of a national push to fight hunger, via the Columbus Peace Fellowship. Some years, such as in 2011, more than 1,000 people have attended.
Also, in some years, the event has included more than 100 volunteer cooks, coordinated most recently by local culinary instructor and chef Carrie Douglas.
Musical entertainment, including well-known local performers, has ranged from Americana/folk to jazz to blues and soul.
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- $3 for youngsters 12 and under
- $12 for all-you-can-eat soups
- $25 for all-you-can-eat soup and hand-crafted artisan bowl
All available at the Facebook page for Empty Bowls-Columbus Indiana.
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