On Sunday, October 12, Highlands First Presbyterian Church will once again be filled with the warm aroma of soup and the spirit of giving as it hosts the 14th annual Empty Bowls community lunch from 11:00 A.M. to 2:00 P.M.
This cherished event, rooted in a global movement to combat hunger through art and shared meals, remains a cornerstone of Highlands’ efforts to support food security.
The Highlands Empty Bowls Project began as a modest gathering inspired by the international initiative, which encourages artists and communities to create handmade bowls and serve simple meals to raise funds for hunger relief. Over the years, Highlands has embraced this mission wholeheartedly, transforming the event into a vibrant celebration of generosity and local flavor.
At the heart of the event is the Highlands Food Pantry, operated by the International Friendship Center. Executive Director TJ Smith emphasizes the critical role the fundraiser plays in sustaining the pantry’s operations, which require approximately $7,000 in monthly food purchases. “Empty Bowls is not just a fundraiser – it’s a lifeline,” Smith notes. “It allows us to continue meeting the growing needs of our neighbors with dignity and care.”
This year’s culinary offerings promise to delight, with soups and desserts donated by beloved local establishments including Mountain Fresh, 4118 Kitchen & Bar, the Highlands Tavern, the Highlands Supper Club, the Baked Bunny, Chef Roberto De Jong, Lakeside Restaurant, and Kilwins. Each $35 ticket includes a hearty serving of soup and a handcrafted pottery bowl – both symbols of nourishment and community.
Tickets are available online at Highlands Friendship Center’s website or in person at the Highlands Food Pantry, located on the bottom floor of Highlands United Methodist Church via Spring Street, open Mondays, Tuesdays, and Thursdays from 10:00 A.M. to 5:00 P.M.
As the event enters its 14th year, it continues to embody the spirit of the original Empty Bowls concept: a simple meal in a handmade bowl, reminding attendees of the many empty bowls in the world and the power of collective action to fill them. Whether you’re a longtime supporter or a first-time guest, this year’s lunch offers a chance to make a meaningful impact – one bowl at a time.
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