The Foodbank of Santa Barbara County raised money for families facing hunger during its 18th annual Empty Bowls event Wednesday in Santa Maria.
Attendees at the gathering received a meal of homemade soups donated by several local restaurants and served in handmade ceramic bowls.
The bowls are created by members of the community, including students and local artists.
The event has become a popular way for people to give back to the Foodbank, and this year, they even added a third serving to keep up with demand.
"We just want to say we're so grateful to the community coming out and caring for those who are facing hunger and all of our wonderful sponsors and volunteers. There is more than 100 volunteers helping out today and it could not happen without everybody coming together to contribute and make sure that it all comes out smoothly, so grateful to all of those people that help," said Judith Smith-Meyer, Foodbank of Santa Barbara County Marketing Communications Manager.
The money raised during the Empty Bowls event stays on the Central Coast.
The Foodbank will be holding its next Empty Bowls fundraiser in Santa Barbara on November 10.
