Empty Bowls Project goes virtual

It’s official. The 23rd Annual Dripping Springs Empty Bowls Project, a fundraiser for Dripping Springs Helping Hands, will still take place in November. But, due to COVID -19, the format for this year’s fundraiser has been altered to adjust to current times. This year the Empty Bowls Project HOME EDITION will be presented virtually.

During the month of November, the Empty Bowls Project Home Edition will be brought to your personal device through a digital platform. Since event organizers have often been asked for the recipes of their soups, beginning November 1st, a daily feature of recipes will be posted from many of the talented chefs who have donated delicious soups in past years. The Home Edition will also highlight creative potters, talented musicians and dedicated supporters. Event organizers are excited to introduce you, though this engaging format, to partners who have been so instrumental in the continuing success of the Empty Bowls Project.

The Coronavirus pandemic has impacted many people in our community. With grocery prices rising and unemployment soaring, Helping Hands clients have found it increasingly difficult to sustain their families. The Helping Hands food pantry helps clients put meals on the table and offers financial assistance for utility bills, rent, and other expenses.

Since the pandemic began, Helping Hands has seen a 34% increase in expenses and a 50% increase in pounds of food distributed. These increases are related directly to a 187% growth in new households that access the food pantry and a 239% increase in new children who need additional aid during COVID-19.

"COVID-19 has presented a number of challenges for Helping Hands and our dedicated volunteers. Not only has food insecurity become an increasing problem, but the ability to pay rent and utility bills is also a mounting concern," Amanda Lewis said, Helping Hands Board President. "Helping Hands is so grateful for the incredible support it receives from the generous Dripping Springs community.”

Now, more than ever, and with the on-going support of our community, Dripping Springs Helping Hands is committed in its mission to assist our neighbors in their time of need.

Helping Hands is proud to have the City of Dripping Springs as a cosponsor of the 23rd Annual Empty Bowls Project HOME EDITION.

For more information about the HOME EDITION, please visit the Helping Hands website: helpinghandsdrippingsprings.org/empty-bowls-project or Facebook page (Dripping Springs Empty Bowls Project).