A community fundraiser benefiting the Highlands Food Pantry
More Than a Bowl of Soup
About Empty Bowls 2026
Food insecurity affects every part of life, from health and well-being to education, employment, and long-term stability. Through the Highlands Food Pantry, hundreds of local families each month receive nutritious groceries, fresh produce, and essential household items that help them thrive.
When you attend Empty Bowls, you're doing far more than enjoying a delicious lunch with friends and neighbors. You're helping ensure that families throughout the Highlands community have reliable access to healthy food when they need it most.
Empty Bowls
Sunday, September 27, 2026
11 AM – 2 PM
First Presbyterian Church of Highlands
471 Main St, Highlands, NC 28741
Event Details
Your $35 ticket includes:
A delicious soup lunch from local restaurants
A handcrafted pottery bowl to take home
The opportunity to help provide healthy food for local families
All ages are welcome.
Sponsor Empty Bowls
Thank you for supporting our community.
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Receives four Empty Bowls tickets, listing as sponsors, and expedited check-in
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Receives two Empty Bowls tickets, listing as sponsors, and expedited check-in
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Receives two Empty Bowls tickets, listing as sponsors, and expedited check-in
Your Impact
Every Bowl Helps Fill Another
The Highlands Food Pantry’s annual budget is around $120,000. Your support helps keep the pantry doors open, ensuring that our community has access to its services all year round. Each month, this looks like:
500
families served each month
2,000
individuals equipped with healthy food each month
15,000+
meals distributed each month
Helen, age 78, has lived in Highlands her entire life, but doesn't always have enough money for groceries after paying for medication and other bills. The Food Pantry helps fill that gap each month, allowing her to remain independent in the home she loves.
JOIN US FOR EMPTY BOWLS 2026
Your seat at Empty Bowls helps provide healthy meals, hope, and dignity for families across our community.
We can’t wait to see you there!