FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Jessica Sund
Director of development and communications
507-424-1729
[email protected]
September 3, 2024
ROCHESTER, Minn.—Pre-orders are now open for the 20th annual Empty Bowls To-Go October 8-9, a fundraiser for Channel One Regional Food Bank that is presented by Think Bank.
Participants will enjoy a selection of gourmet soups—including flavors like chicken gouda wild rice and coconut carrot curry—from local restaurants. A hand-painted bowl can be added to each order to serve as a reminder of those who may not know where their next meal will come from.
“We’re facing unprecedented demand at our area food shelves, with more than 30,000 households visiting in July alone. Record numbers of new households are registering who have never needed assistance before,” said Virginia Witherspoon, Channel One Regional Food Bank executive director. “Right now, we need to come together as a community through efforts like this to raise awareness and support for those experiencing food insecurity.”
The Empty Bowls To-Go event raised more than $91,000 last year, providing crucial funding to programs that address food insecurity across 14 counties in southeastern Minnesota and western Wisconsin. This year, the need is greater than ever, and every purchase of soup makes a significant impact.
In addition to the hand-painted memento bowls, people may purchase a unique specialty bowl crafted by local artisans during pre-orders and onsite at the event.
Empty Bowls To-Go is pre-order only and soup orders will close at 7 p.m. October 2.
Learn more about Empty Bowls To-Go and place a soup order here.
###
About Channel One Regional Food Bank
Channel One Regional Food Bank, a member of Feeding America, strengthens food access and builds healthy communities. Channel One operates food programs to serve local and area needs such as: a food bank, a food shelf, mobile pantries, Kitchen Coalition, and the Commodity Supplemental Food Program (CSFP). Channel One Regional Food Bank mobilizes organizations, volunteers, and donors to serve the network of over 125 nonprofit programs that provide food for children, adults, and families in need. Channel One serves 14 counties across southeastern Minnesota and western Wisconsin. For more information, call 507.287.2350 or visit HelpingFeedPeople.org.
