This year’s Empty Bowls to benefit the Community Food Bank (CFB) brought together local restaurants and businesses who joined forces to help fight hunger. The following raised a total of $9813.61 by donating a portion of their gross sales as part of the Empty Bowls event:
- Amy’s on the Avenue
- Cattle Dog Coffee Roasters
- Katch 22
- Manatee Maven
- Tim’s Barber Room
- Wallace’s Greenhouse Bistro
“Like many non-profit organizations, we had to pivot our event model because of COVID-19,” explains Barbara Sprague, Executive Director of the CFB. “We are very pleased with the results of this year’s Empty Bowls and look forward to hopefully returning to an in-person event in 2022.”
A number of local businesses and individuals lent their financial support, including Lowman Law Firm, Crystal Automotive, Dr. Bob’s Compassion Clinic, Avant-Garde Consulting and Professional Services, Citrus 95.3/Fox 96.7/Naturecoast Country, Drummond Bank, Kanes/Lollygaggers/The Loft, Kim DeVane and Mike Orlito, JoAnne and Zell Boggus, Armantes, Breakfast Station and Saltwater Cowboy’s Bar & Grill.
“The Community Food Bank is fortunate to have the ongoing support of so many individuals, businesses and sponsors during the COVID-19 pandemic,” says Steve Ponticos, President of the CFB Board of Directors. “We could not have ramped up efforts and met the increased need for food assistance without the generous support of our local community.