AMHERST — Hundreds of people are expected to drop by the Amherst Survival Center for a shared meal, served by celebrity waitstaff in handcrafted bowls made by local potters, at the 18th Empty Bowls event Saturday.
Running from noon to 4 p.m. at the 138 Sunderland Road site, the center’s largest fundraiser supports the operations that last year provided more than 1.6 million meals to over 12,000 individuals.
The center continues to see a surge in need. In 2023, the center provided 1.4 million meals to 10,000 individuals.
Guests who purchase tickets for the event will get a selection of hot soup made by a local restaurant that is put into a bowl, with live music, an opportunity to buy high-end raffle tickets with various prizes and engage with celebrity hosts.
Executive Director Carleen Basler describes each bowl, made by professional and student potters, as representing “nourishment, dignity and connection for our neighbors across Franklin and Hampshire Counties.”
“At a time when food insecurity continues to rise, the generosity and partnership behind Empty Bowls ensures that we can meet this growing need with compassion and resolve,” Basler said.
Greenfield Savings Bank is one of the main sponsors.
“Since 2020, we have seen a remarkable increase in food insecurity and barriers to accessing healthy food,” said President and CEO Peter Albero. “Greenfield Savings Bank has made it a philanthropic priority to support nonprofits that are working tirelessly to ensure residents of Franklin and Hampshire County have reliable access to nutritious meals.”
Regular tickets are $50, which includes a handcrafted bowl and meal, while a soup-only ticket is $30 for adults, $10 for children ages 3 to 17, and free for those 2 and under.
Raffle tickets are three for $25 online, or one for $10 on the day of the event
For more information, go to www.amherstsurvival.org/emptybowls. Tickets can be bought online and will also be available at the door.
