Feb. 27, 2026 4:15p
(WGTD)---The year’s biggest fundraiser to fight hunger in Racine County is coming up on Monday, Mar. 2nd.
Empty Bowls has gotten bigger every year since it began, according to the group’s treasurer, Dawn Merritt. In the first 'Bowls' in 1999, a skimpy $393 was raised, she said on WGTD's Morning Show. Last year, over $70,000 was generated and split between the Racine County Food Bank, the HALO homeless shelter and the Hospitality Center.
The event—currently held at Festival Hall—features a variety of donated soups and bakery goods. Patrons eat their soups out of hand-painted bowls which they can keep.
Stephanie Sklba heads up the Racine County Food Bank. She says fundraisers such as Empty Bowls are more important than ever. "We're at a time where there's a lot of uncertainty for individuals," she said. "Knowing that there are resources--whether it's the Racine County Food Bank or the Hospitality Center or through HALO, I think our community knows that those resources are here and that we're working together to make sure that the needs are being met."
The Food Bank serves as a collection point and clearinghouse that helps to supply eleven emergency food pantries in the county. Those pantries serve about 5,000 individuals each month.
Monday’s event is open for lunch from 11 to two, and reopens for dinner from four to seven. In addition to food, there are raffles, an online auction and live music. Tickets—available at the door—are $20 for adults and $5 for children under 10. In addition, there’s a $10 soup to go option.
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