URGENT UPDATE: The Austin Empty Bowl Project is set to launch on November 23 at the Central Texas Food Bank, aiming to combat rising hunger as families face critical food shortages. With the ongoing government shutdown causing delays in SNAP benefits, this event is more crucial than ever for struggling households in Central Texas.
As food insecurity intensifies, the Central Texas Food Bank reports a staggering 50% increase in demand for its services. Just this week, over 1,000 individuals lined up for essential groceries, with another 600 at a distribution in Pflugerville. The food bank, which was already spending $1.3 million monthly, now faces expenses of nearly $1 million weekly to meet the escalating needs of the community.
Sari Vatske, President of the Central Texas Food Bank, stated,
“Right now, we’re trying to ensure people have what they need to get through the day, that kids are nourished, that older adults don’t have to choose between food and medicine.”
This sentiment reflects the urgent reality many families are facing as they await government assistance.
The White House has announced a temporary extension of SNAP funding, but experts warn this is merely a stopgap solution as the government shutdown threatens to become the longest in history. Currently, there is a gap of $44 million in SNAP benefits across the food bank’s 21-county service area, underscoring the importance of initiatives like the Austin Empty Bowl Project.
The event, now in its 29th year, is not just about soup but symbolizes community support. Volunteers are busy crafting over 3,000 handmade bowls and preparing 200 gallons of soup. Deb Dixon, Co-Director of the Austin Empty Bowl Project, shared,
“This Sunday before Thanksgiving, we have about 1,500 people that attend every year. We’ll have over 3,000 bowls available for folks to purchase with their $30 donation.”
Each bowl purchased serves as a reminder of those in need and directly supports local food programs.
Each $30 donation can feed a family of four for a week or provide three home-delivered meals through programs like the Kids Café and Meals on Wheels. Henry Van De Putte, CEO of Meals On Wheels Central Texas, emphasized,
“I think the community is laser-focused right now, and it would be a shame for the community not to really take this moment and understand that hunger is a solvable problem.”
The Austin Empty Bowl Project takes place on November 23 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Central Texas Food Bank. This is an opportunity for the community to come together and support those facing hunger while enjoying a heartfelt meal.
As the situation evolves, local residents are urged to participate and contribute to this vital cause. The need for support is more pressing than ever, and every bowl purchased can make a significant impact in the fight against hunger.
