Heavy snowfall didn’t prevent Minnesotans from gathering at St. Andrew Lutheran Church on February 21st of this year. They convened to break bread together. To share soup, the most communal of all meals, together. They also enjoyed beverages. But more than anything, they came together as a community in support of PROP Food Shelf.
“We are still in awe at the turnout to the 11th annual Empty Bowls fundraiser,” said Jenifer Loon, executive director of PROP. “A record number of businesses, organizations, faith-based groups and individuals attended the first in-person Empty Bowls we have held in three years. It warmed my heart to see everyone reconnecting over their meals and raising awareness of our neighbors who struggle with food and economic insecurity. Their generous donations have gone directly toward PROP’s food, financial and wraparound programs.
“We are grateful to our sponsors, the local restaurants which provided the delicious food, and everyone who joyously volunteered to staff the event. We would especially like to thank St. Andrew for hosting us. Pastor Peter Johnson and his church's many volunteers also held ‘TP for EP,’ a paper goods drive that spanned the whole month leading up to Empty Bowls.
“Whether it takes the form of food, funding, or job opportunities for our clients who are reentering the workforce, we are truly blessed to receive so much support from our community. If you couldn’t join us this year, then I look forward to seeing you at the next Empty Bowls in 2024!”
propfood.org