Empty Bowls

volunteers and guests at Empty Bowls luncheon

Support Our Mission to End Hunger

The annual Empty Bowls luncheon event is a cherished tradition hosted by Barnabas Center, uniting the community to raise awareness and support for those facing food insecurity in Nassau County. Symbolizing the reality of hunger, guests share a simple meal of soup, bread and dessert, reflecting the modest meals that struggling individuals and families often face. Additionally, each attendee will take home a beautiful hand-painted ceramic bowl, created by local artists and volunteers. Each unique bowl is a reminder of the many in our community who go without and the shared mission to fill those empty bowls. Your participation and generosity bring hope and nourishment to our neighbors in need.

JOIN US FOR THE 12TH ANNUAL EMPTY BOWLS EVENT

Please join us for the 12th annual Empty Bowls luncheon on November 25, 2025 at The Ritz-Carlton, Amelia Island. Tickets will be available online as we get closer to the event.

November 25, 2025
The Ritz-Carlton, Amelia Island
4750 Amelia Island Pkwy, Amelia Island, FL
Noon to 1 p.m.
Tickets: $40

Parking is limited, so carpooling is encouraged. Complimentary parking starts at 10:45 a.m. at Peters Point Beach Front Park, with shuttle service provided by Omni Amelia Island Resort & Spa from 10:45 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Secure your spot for an afternoon of community, delicious soup and giving back.

group photo at annual Empty Bowls luncheon
volunteers at paint party

HOST A PAINT PARTY

Bowl painting parties are a wonderful opportunity to blend creativity with compassion! The Empty Bowls event serves as a poignant reminder of the many “bowls” that need filling for those facing hunger and food insecurity in our community. We invite volunteers to dedicate their time and talents to paint beautiful bowls that will be given to guests at the event or auctioned off to raise funds. Every painted bowl represents a commitment to helping those in need, and with your support, we can create a meaningful impact together.

Drop in at the Barnabas Center Studio every first Wednesday of the month between April and October, from 10 a.m. to noon, located at 1303 Jasmine St., Suite 104, Fernandina Beach.

Gather a group of friends or colleagues (up to 25 people) on Tuesdays from 4 to 6 p.m. Additional dates and times can be accommodated upon request.

Help us spread joy and raise awareness through your creativity. For more details, please contact Barb Decker at [email protected] or call 904.261.7000 ext. 106.

BID ONLINE FOR PAINTED BOWLS

As part of the Empty Bowls event, there will be an online auction where you can bid on beautifully crafted bowls that not only showcase the talent of local artists but also include unique pieces from local celebrities. Each bowl represents a commitment to fighting food insecurity in our community, with all proceeds directly supporting our neighbors in need. By participating in the online auction, you’re not just acquiring a one-of-a-kind bowl; you’re helping to fill the empty bowls in our community.

painted bowl

BECOME A SPONSOR

Support the Empty Bowls event by becoming a valued sponsor! We are currently offering sponsorship opportunities at all levels, allowing you to contribute meaningfully to our mission of combating hunger in our community. Together, we can create a stronger, more compassionate community!

If you’re interested in sponsoring this impactful event, please reach out to Nicola Barnack at [email protected].

HAVE A QUESTION?

Whether you need assistance, want to get involved or just have a thought to share, we’re always happy to listen and help however we can. We’re committed to making sure everyone in our community feels heard, valued and supported.