COLUMBUS, Ga. (WTVM) – Every first Sunday in March, Feeding the Valley Food Bank and Columbus Parks and Recreation host the Annual Empty Bowl Luncheon, sparking a commitment to helping needy children.
“I loved the chicken wild rice it was so good,” said Columbus resident, Troy Nast.
He was one of the hundreds of people in and out of Northside Recreation Center for soup, soup, and more soup.
Those in attendance picked out a handcrafted bowl, then got in line for their endless soup and desserts all for a good cause.
Nast, who loves pottery and soup, said the luncheon is a win-win.
“It’s always nice to know that you’re helping out the community especially children. You know, I’m not a fan of food waste, so it’s nice to know that something that potentially could be wasted will go to children in need,” said Nast.
Columbus Parks and Recreation Director Holli Browder says the luncheon is a very important way to give back to the community.
“I don’t think people realize how many children are not as fortunate as others and they may not have a meal to eat after school or in the summers,” said Browder, “This program goes to fund the Kids Café program which allow kids to have a meal during the summer or after school that might not have had one otherwise.”
A staggering 27.5% of children in Muscogee County and 30.4% of children in Russell County face food insecurity. Through Feeding the Valley Kids Café program, more than 500,000 thousand hot, nutritious meals are made each year for children after school and during the summer.
“In our children’s feeding program $1 provides 6 meals, so buying one ticket is 120 meals for children in need in our community,” said Frank Sheppard, President and CEO of Feeding the Valley Food Bank.
The empty bowl symbolizes hunger. Sheppard says everyone deserves nutrition, adding that it’s the cornerstone of success.
“It’s just one of those basic needs that affect your life. If you’re hungry, you can’t perform as well, you can’t stay healthy, you won’t do well in school. Those are things we want everyone to have a chance to succeed,” said Sheppard.
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