SANDPOINT — It may seem like a simple bowl of soup, but in reality, it is so much more.

The annual Empty Bowl Fundraiser not only offers a delicious meal for community members but also a way to support local households facing food insecurity.

"Empty Bowl is more than a fundraiser; it’s a reminder of what can happen when a community gathers around food and compassion," Debbie Love, executive director of the Bonner Community Food Bank, said. "There’s nothing better than seeing so many caring individuals in one room, all showing up for their neighbors."

The luncheon will be held from 12:30 p.m. to 2 p.m. Friday, March 6, at the Marigold Cafe, 414 Church St.

Guests will choose from more than 250 one-of-a-kind ceramic bowls created by local high school students. Each bowl is food-safe, dishwasher-safe and designed to be taken home as a reminder that while the meal is simple, the need in the community is ongoing.

"We’re especially proud to partner with Sandpoint High School’s students and teachers to make this event possible," Love said, noting the bowls quickly become cherished keepsakes and reminders to help others in the community.

The event meal will feature soups donated by Marigold Bistro, Spuds Waterfront Grill, Winter Ridge Natural Foods and Beet & Basil. In addition, coffee has been donated by Evans Brothers Coffee, and rolls are provided by Super 1 Foods.

Attendees also can participate in a silent auction, featuring curated items and baskets donated to help raise additional funds for food assistance programs. All Seasons Garden and Floral will donate the centerpieces, food bank officials said.

Proceeds from the Empty Bowl event directly support the Bonner Community Food Bank’s mission to ensure individuals and families in Bonner County have access to nutritious food. For many households, food assistance means less stress, more stability and the ability to focus on work, school and health instead of worrying about the next meal, Love said.

“This event brings together students, businesses and neighbors in a powerful way,” a food bank volunteer said. “It shows what is possible when a community chooses to care for one another.”

The Empty Bowl fundraiser was first held in the community in mid-November 2015 in recognition of National Hunger and Homelessness Awareness Week. The event took a hiatus during the pandemic and returned in 2024 as a spring event.

In Bonner County, a significant percentage of the population struggles with hunger, food bank officials said. In 2017, the food bank was helping more than 900 area families each month. By 2021, that number had increased to roughly 1,020 families a month, and the need continues to grow.

The food bank saw 33,000 visits in 2022, topping the previous record of 24,000 in 2021.

This year, the food bank is assisting an average of 3,700 individuals each month, representing a nearly 16% increase over last year, Love said.

"When people have reliable access to food, everything else becomes more stable," Love said. "Kids do better in school, adults can focus on work and families are less likely to fall into crisis. Feeding our neighbors truly strengthens the entire community."

While the numbers show an increasing need, Love said it also shows the true character of the Sandpoint community.

"As I think about this, while that growth reflects rising need, it also highlights something beautiful: our community continues to show up, and together, we are able to meet that growing demand," Love said. "It warms my heart."

Events like the Empty Bowl fundraiser bring both awareness and much-needed funds to the food bank.

To donate to the food bank, learn more about its services or find out how to volunteer, go online to foodbank83864.com or facebook.com/bonnercommunityfoodbank.