Jonesboro, AR – (JonesboroRightNow.com) – Aug. 19, 2025 – The Food Bank of Northeast Arkansas will be holding its sixth annual Empty Bowls fundraiser next month as it continues its efforts to raise awareness and funds to feed families across Northeast Arkansas.
Food Bank of NEA Development Officer Chrissy Holbrook said during the fundraiser, participants will make their way through the drive-thru line, where they will select food from a special event menu and take home a handcrafted ceramic bowl.
“Empty Bowls is a fundraiser for us that not only helps to raise critical funds, but also awareness,” she said. “So, not only do you get a lunch with this event, but you also walk away with a handmade ceramic bowl that’s been made by local art students as a keepsake and as a reminder that somewhere someone’s bowl is empty. I keep my bowl on my desk, and I look at it every day as a reminder.”
According to Holbrook, the bowls are donated by local high school students, as well as artists at Open Studio in Jonesboro. This year’s goal is to try to raise 200,000 meals, which equals about $65,000, she added.
Food for the event is all donated by local restaurants. Event tickets are $25 and can be purchased online by clicking here.
The event will also feature a raffle for a chance to win $500 or other prizes. Raffle tickets are $5 a piece or $20 for five tickets. All raffle tickets must be purchased with cash from volunteers or committee members.
To learn more about available prizes or how to purchase, call 870-932-3663. All proceeds from raffle ticket sales directly support the food bank.
Sponsorships are also available. For more information about becoming a sponsor, contact Holbrook at cholbrook@foodbankofnea.org.
Empty Bowls will be held on Sept. 25 from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at the Food Bank of NEA, located at 3414 One Place.
