Edmonds Food Bank's Empty Bowl Event Raises Record-Breaking $175,000 for Community Nourishment

The Edmonds Food Bank's recent Empty Bowl event has set a new fundraising milestone, generating an impressive $175,000 to support its mission of providing fresh, nutritious, and culturally relevant food to nearly 1,000 households in the community each week. This remarkable achievement underscores the unwavering commitment of the Edmonds community to address food insecurity and foster a more food-secure future.

Empowering the Community, One Bowl at a Time

A Celebration of Generosity and Togetherness

The Empty Bowl event, a beloved annual tradition, brought together 180 attendees, including elected officials, local business owners, dedicated volunteers, and community members, all united in their support for the Edmonds Food Bank's vital work. The evening was a vibrant tapestry of community spirit, as guests mingled during the cocktail hour, sipping on donated beverages from local favorites Niles Peacock, Jeff Uncorked, and Gallagher's Where U Brew, while admiring the beautifully handcrafted bowls created by talented local artists – a true highlight of the event.

The Bowl Dash: A Symbolic Gesture of Giving

As the evening progressed, the much-anticipated "bowl dash" kicked off, where guests eagerly selected a unique bowl to take home, symbolizing the theme of the event and the cause it supports. The table of handcrafted bowls even included a special bowl painted by local artist Bear Carpenter, adding an extra touch of artistry to the proceedings.

A Delectable Feast for a Worthy Cause

Guests were treated to a delicious meal of soups, salads, and rolls, generously donated by local culinary partners, including Table for 12, Navi's Catering Kitchen, Pacific Northwest Catering, Chef Dane Catering, Ristorante Machiavelli, and Cottage Bakery. In addition to the sumptuous fare, attendees participated in lively fundraising activities, such as a wine toss, dessert dash, and the ever-popular game of heads or tails, further contributing to the event's success.

Inspiring Testimonials and Heartfelt Gratitude

KIRO 7 News Radio host and Edmonds Food Bank volunteer, Colleen O'Brien, emceed the evening, sharing her personal experience as a dedicated volunteer and the rewarding feeling of making a real difference in the lives of those facing food insecurity. Executive Director Casey Davis expressed heartfelt gratitude to the attendees, emphasizing the profound impact their contributions have on nourishing the community and fostering an environment of hope.

A Powerful Narrative of Resilience and Hope

The event's most poignant moment came when community member Mindy Woods delivered a moving speech about her own experience with food insecurity, sharing how access to nourishing food made a profound impact on her life as both a child and a parent. Her story resonated deeply with the audience, reinforcing the critical role the Edmonds Food Bank plays in supporting those in need and inspiring a renewed sense of purpose and community.

Reaching for New Heights: A Stretch Goal of $200,000

The remarkable $175,000 raised at the Empty Bowl event has set a new benchmark for the Edmonds Food Bank's fundraising efforts. However, the organization is not resting on its laurels, as it continues to strive for an even more ambitious stretch goal of $200,000 to further expand its reach and impact within the community. With the unwavering support of the Edmonds community, the food bank is poised to continue its vital work, ensuring that no one in the area goes without access to fresh, nutritious, and culturally relevant food.