Empty Bowls fundraiser slated for March 19

The Empty Bowls fundraiser event benefiting Yadkin Christian Ministries has become a much beloved tradition and continues to be popular despite a change in format. The first Empty Bowls was held in 2011. This year’s event is planned for March 19 at the Yadkinville Moose Lodge with two meal pick up options for lunch from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. and dinner from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. Tickets are still available, said YCM Director Beth Steelman.

Traditionally the Empty Bowls event was a large community gathering with multiple soups made by area churches, but organizers have made changes in the wake of the pandemic. The food is now all from certified kitchens and the meal is served as take out rather than a seated meal. Despite this change, the fundraiser continues be popular and often sells out completely. The soup on-the-go fundraiser continues to be supported by the Yadkin community and Steelman said that support is invaluable.

Last year Yadkin Christian Ministries served 14,999 individuals, distributing some 472,050 pounds of food.

“The need is great,” Steelman said. The Empty Bowls event is not only an important fundraiser for Yadkin Christian Ministries, but a way to bring awareness to the community of the need.

Ticket holders for this year’s Empty Bowls will receive a handmade pottery bowl, Cracker Barrel vegetable beef soup, Taste of Italy salad with ranch dressing, Krispy Kreme doughnut and a bottle water. Raffle tickets for a handmade quilt will also be available.

Steelman said there are some lovely and unique bowls this year from local potters, including a new potter to the event who recently won an award.

For more information on Yadkin Christian Ministries or to purchase Empty Bowls tickets visit www.y-c-m.org or call 336-677-3080. Yadkin Christian Ministries serves clients weekly at its Yadkinville location at 117 Woodlyn Dr. and East Bend location at 118 East N.C. 67 Hwy Bypass.