Volunteers at the 12th annual Empty Bowls fundraiser served up delicious soups and a strong sense of community on Friday. The event, held in the Gettysburg College Union Building Ballroom, welcomed attendees between 4 and 7 p.m.
Hosted by The Gleaning Project—a nonprofit initiative of South Central Community Action Programs (SCCAP)—the fundraiser supports efforts to reduce food waste and combat food insecurity in Adams and Franklin counties.
Community members, artists, musicians, restaurants, and local businesses collaborated to provide a simple yet savory soup supper. Early-bird tickets were $20, with prices rising to $25 after April 25 and at the door. All soups, breads, flowers, drinks, desserts, and handcrafted bowls were donated by generous supporters.
Musical entertainment was provided by Chuck Darwin and the Knuckle-Draggers, whose lively bluegrass tunes added to the evening’s festive atmosphere. Guests sampled more than 15 varieties of soup prepared by local favorites including The Dobbin House, CrEATe @ 48, Gettysburg Area School District, Cottage Creperie, Mansion House 1757, and Gettysburg College.
Organizers reported that 350 advance tickets were sold, with an estimated 400 attendees in total.
“We’re thankful for the community coming together for this special event,” said Megan Shreve, CEO of SCCAP. “People don’t realize the Gleaning Project relies 100% on donations. There is no government funding.”
Guests were invited to keep their handcrafted bowl as a lasting reminder of those who face hunger daily. All proceeds from the event support The Gleaning Project, a nonprofit effort to reduce food loss on local farms and increase food security in our communities. Fresh produce donations and pickups are accepted at 153 North Stratton Street in Gettysburg during spring open hours: Monday, Wednesday, and Thursday from 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.
For more information, including a produce calendar and recipes, visit thegleaningproject.org.
Amy Thomas, Contributing Editor, is responsible for community outreach, including our social media presence. She, her husband, and her two children reside in Adams County. Amy also works in occupational therapy and volunteers with local organizations.
It was on our Events listing and Facebook page. Hopefully you can make this community fundraising event next year.
How did I miss this? Didn’t see it advertised anywhere? It used to be in January?