The community came out in force for the annual Empty Bowls fundraiser hosted by Rumson-Fair Haven Regional High School (RFH).

Held in the RFH Cafeteria on the evening of March 2, the event raised $2,765 for the Food Bank of Monmouth and Ocean Counties.

The Empty Bowls name is representative of the situation faced by many local families struggling to put food on the table. Each year the RFH event is open to the public and features original artwork in the form of colorful bowls created by students. Ten dollars purchased one of the ceramic bowls as well as unlimited homemade soup and bread.

The variety of soups offered were provided by members of the RFH school community including RFH staff members. Artisan bread was donated by Contemporary Baker, and bread was also donated by community members.

Also featured was the lucky chance drawing for one-of-a-kind ceramic pieces donated by local artists Linda and David Shoemaker of Norse Ceramics, as well as Judi Tavill and RFH Art Teacher Zach Wilson.

Event coordinators were: RFH Media Specialist Linda Wien Murray, Art Teacher Zach Wilson, and Guidance Counselor Jason Lippart.

Community coordinators were: Marianne Velcamp and Jen Shaw with assistance from Nancy Incremona, Jolie Schwartz, and Vicki Bogardus, along with all of the other volunteers and soup-makers.

RFH ceramics students, as well as members of the RFH Character Education Club and RFH Cooking Club, provided a helping hand. RFH students Brian Incremona and Leo Maita provided musical accompaniment for the crowd.

The Empty Bowls Project, now in its 26th year, is an international grassroots effort to raise both money and awareness in the fight to end hunger. More information can be found at emptybowls.net.

The Food Bank of Monmouth and Ocean Counties alleviates hunger though child nutrition programs, a mobile pantry, a senior food program, and nutrition education. For more information on how you can help as a volunteer or by donating, visit foodbankmoc.org.

— Edited press release from Rumson-Fair Haven Regional High School