PUTNEY-The southern Vermont Empty Bowls steering committee announces its 22nd annual "Empty Bowls Dinner" - benefitting Foodworks, the region's most heavily utilized food shelf program operated by Groundworks Collaborative. This year's dinner will be held Saturday, Oct. 11, from 5 to 7 pm at Landmark College.
Diners purchase tickets online or at the door. Each ticket includes a handmade bowl to keep, crafted and donated by local potters. The menu features soups donated by more than 12 area restaurants, accompanied by local bread, cheese, and apple - all in support of stocking the shelves at Foodworks.
"Those who are unable to join us for the dinner can still support Foodworks by purchasing a bowl - they also make thoughtful gifts," said committee member Bonnie Stearns in a news release. Individual bowls are $25 and available at the Brattleboro Food Co-op, Everyone's Books, Kitchen Sync, The Shoe Tree, Zephyr Designs, the Putney Food Co-op, and the Putney General Store.
Every dollar raised at Empty Bowls goes directly to Foodworks. In FY2025, the program served 4,767 unique individuals across 2,027 households - including 1,206 children - providing free, high-quality supplemental food to anyone in need.
"This event is a testament to our community's commitment to ensuring our neighbors have access to quality supplemental food at no cost. With demand continuing to grow, we're working to enhance our capacity so we can better serve our community for years to come," said Groundworks Executive Director Libby Bennett.
Groundworks Collaborative is working to purchase Foodworks' current location, securing a permanent home for the program at 141 Canal St. While environmental review processes have caused delays, the organization remains committed to this ideal location and will complete environmental mitigation efforts prior to purchase, currently planned for early 2026.
Planned facility improvements include siding, roof replacement, upgrades to HVAC, refrigeration, freezer, and flooring, as well as improved accessibility features. As fundraising allows, Groundworks hopes to install a loading dock, upgrade displays and shelving, and improve signage.
The capital campaign for the purchase remains open and is seeking donations. Funds raised by the Empty Bowls effort offset the costs of operating Foodworks and will not be used for the purchase or renovation of the property on Canal Street.
"Empty Bowls has become more than just a fundraiser; it's a tradition that fosters community togetherness around a shared goal: ensuring that our neighbors have their basic needs met with dignity," said Groundworks Development and Communications Director Julianne Mills.
Adult tickets are $30, online and at the door. Youth tickets are $15 for ages 7–15. Children 6 and under attend free. Tickets can be purchased online at GroundworksVT.org.
For event information, contact JMills@GroundworksVT.org, 802-302-8302, or GroundworksVT.org.
This Special section item was submitted to The Commons.