EMPTY BOWLS HELPS FEED THOSE IN NEED

By TAYLOR HACKETT

The second annual Empty Bowls Dinner and Fundraiser was held on Friday, March 24 at Washingtonville High School. The event was sponsored by the National Art Honor Society and the proceeds went to the Country Kids Food Pantry and the Food Bank of the Hudson Valley. 

The Country Kids Food Pantry serves approximately 370 families here at Washingtonville, making this event extraordinarily beneficial to those in need. The event was a much greater success than last year and had raving reviews. 

TAYLOR HACKETT FOR WIZARD WEEKLY

The Empty Bowls event was organized and led by WHS Art teacher, Lara Held and AIS reading teacher, Kimberly Constable. This dynamic duo put blood, sweat, and tears into making this event just as spectacular as it was last year.  When asked how this year's event differed from last year Mrs. Constable replied, “This year’s Empty Bowls event was vastly different because we reorganized the lines of entry to the cafeteria so people were able to make payment based on whether they were purchasing a ceramic bowl or a disposable bowl. We also had two food lines as opposed to one which made the flow a lot better.”  In addition to that, Constable added, “We currently have tallied approximately $5,000, and at this point in time we raised at least $1,000 more than last year.”

The National Honor Society did a great deal to help put this event together.  When asked how the NAHS members helped with Empty Bowls, Vice President Victoria Stone replied, “Many NAHS members came to volunteer and many stayed from 2:15 pm to 8:30 pm. We set up by taking out all the bowls, covering the tables with paper, and decorating the hallway with posters. During the event, members served food, helped direct traffic near the auditorium and cafeteria, and walked around making sure everyone had a good time.”

This event wouldn’t have been possible without the support of the community. There were many local businesses that donated food for the event.  A special thank you to Amada’s Kitchen, C & G Plus Country Store, Betty’s Country Kitchen, T&M II Go, Bella Luna Ristorante, Brother Bruno’s, Cornucopia Concept Caterers and the Candy Lady. Also, thank you to the WHS PTSO and Clay Class Parents, and Heather Pillsworth. In addition to some of those businesses, Ms. Hall’s Food and Nutrition classes made the delicious bread served at the event. Last, but certainly not least, a huge expression of gratitude goes to Robert Gellman and the Food Services Department here at Washingtonville Central School District for all of the assistance making food and helping out in the kitchen. 

Anyone interested in supporting a good cause can purchase one of multiple professional artist bowls that are still left for sale.  They can be found in the display case at Ms. Held’s room.