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Wednesday morning saw volunteer artists diligently crafting bowls inside the Hart Street Pottery studio in Fort Worth for the Tarrant Area Food Bank’s ‘Empty Bowls’ fundraiser.
“It represents the people in our community who are in need, sometimes unexpectedly,” remarked Janet Rodriguez, owner of Hart Street Pottery and a dedicated volunteer. “It’s a reminder of the hunger that exists in America.”
The primary objective of ‘Empty Bowls’ is to generate sufficient funds to provide nearly one million meals through the TAFB Ready to Learn program, which supports in-school markets and educational initiatives.
“It’s about feeding the hungry, and it’s unfortunate that hunger persists in our country,” shared volunteer artist Glenda Endres as she meticulously glazed a bowl on a pottery wheel. “I’m grateful to be able to contribute my talent for a noble cause.”
Rodriguez has been offering her time and pottery studio to TAFB for two decades, driven by her desire to make a difference.
“I may not have much to give financially, but I can make bowls,” Rodriguez reflected. “The thought of children going hungry, especially during school vacations, is heartbreaking.”
Some of the Empty Bowls will be available for auction at the fundraiser, while others will be provided free of charge with the purchase of a ticket.
“My bowl will be one of the complimentary ones,” joked volunteer Rebecca Martin. “No one would want to pay for mine!”
Rodriguez expressed her hope that recipients of the bowls would recognize the compassion behind the gesture.
“I hope they see that someone cares enough to take action for them,” Rodriguez said earnestly. “Because anyone could find themselves in need of help one day.”
The Tarrant Area Food Bank Empty Bowls annual fundraiser is scheduled for April 26, from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at the Will Rogers Coliseum. Tickets are available for purchase on their website.