By Adam Frisk Local Journalism Initiative Reporter
Haliburton’s Empty Bowls fundraiser is adding a lunch seating this year as food insecurity continues to rise in the County.
Food bank usage is up 27 per cent and food costs continue to rise. That prompted organizers to change up the format this year to accommodate more people.
The event returns to the Haliburton Legion on Sept. 19. Organizers are offering lunch at 1 p.m. and dinner at 5 p.m.
Event organizer Louise Ewing said the change comes down to practical kitchen limits. Last year’s dinner put pressure on volunteers working behind the scenes.
“It was just really hard to keep the soup flowing, getting it heated up to temperature, and getting enough spoons washed for the next seating,” Ewing said. “So, we’re trying the lunch and the dinner this year to see how that goes.”
About 50 volunteers will be on hand throughout the day, serving 60 gallons of soup donated by 13 local restaurants. SIRCH Community Services and the 4Cs Food Bank are supplying 500 rolls to go with the meal.
The pottery remains the event’s main draw. Attendees pick out a handcrafted ceramic bowl to eat from, then take it home as a physical reminder of food insecurity in the community.
Potter Michelle Anton spearheaded the effort again this year, co-ordinating with 10 local potters who crafted 360 pieces during the spring and summer. That exceeded their original target of 300, thanks in part to donated clay that helped offset material costs for the artists.
“When you walk into the Schofield room where they set up all the bowls, it’s impressive,” Ewing said. “They’re all completely unique.”
Money raised is divided equally between SIRCH’s frozen meal program and the 4Cs Food Bank. Last year’s turnout generated roughly $7,000, sending $3,500 to each organization.
As summer seasonal residents head back home after Labour Day and sales at the Lily Ann Thrift Store begin to dip, the timing of the fundraiser comes at an important time for the 4Cs. The store is a key source of revenue for buying food, even as grocery prices and client visits continue to climb.
Organizers also have a plan for any soup left over from dinner. It will be portioned into containers, frozen, and distributed directly to food bank clients.
There will also be a silent auction featuring brand-new items donated by residents through the SIRCH Thrift Warehouse and Lily Ann Thrift Store, including electronics, small kitchen appliances, and charcuterie boards.
Tickets are $40 in person or $42 through the Haliburton Legion website. Direct cash or e-transfer donations can also be made to SIRCH or the 4Cs Food Bank.
