UPDATE: The Austin Empty Bowl Project is set for November 23, urgently aiming to combat food insecurity in Central Texas. With thousands of handmade bowls ready, the event will take place from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Central Texas Food Bank, just as many families struggle amid ongoing SNAP delays and a government shutdown.
As the situation worsens, Sari Vatske, President of the Central Texas Food Bank, emphasizes the critical need for support. “Right now, we’re trying to ensure people have what they need to get through the day,” Vatske stated, highlighting that the food bank is witnessing a staggering 50% increase in demand for their services.
Earlier this week, queues of over 1,000 people formed at Nelson Field for essential groceries, with another 600 at the Pflugerville distribution. The food bank’s expenditures have skyrocketed from $1.3 million a month to nearly $1 million per week to meet the growing need.
The White House has announced a temporary extension of SNAP benefits, but this is merely a stopgap as the government shutdown approaches the longest in history. The food bank faces a daunting $44 million shortfall in SNAP benefits across its 21-county service area, making the Austin Empty Bowl Project more vital than ever.
This year marks the 29th annual event, where volunteers craft bowls on pottery wheels throughout Austin. Deb Dixon, Co-Director of the Austin Empty Bowl Project, reveals that approximately 1,500 people are expected to attend, with over 3,000 bowls available for purchase with a $30 donation. The event also boasts over 200 gallons of soup pledged for attendees.
“This is about more than serving soup,” Dixon added. “We can help the food bank and Meals on Wheels stretch those dollars and contribute to those in need.” Each donation directly supports the food bank’s Kids Café Program and Meals on Wheels Central Texas, providing meals to families struggling with food insecurity.
Henry Van De Putte, CEO of Meals on Wheels Central Texas, stresses that hunger is a solvable problem. “The community is laser-focused right now,” he said, urging residents to recognize the urgency of the situation.
As the Austin Empty Bowl Project approaches, it symbolizes hope and community support in the face of rising hunger. The event serves as a potent reminder of the ongoing need in Central Texas, where families continue to face empty bowls.
Join the movement to support your neighbors on November 23. Your participation could make a significant difference in the lives of those struggling to put food on the table.
