Even the worst U.S. pandemic in a century can’t stop a worthwhile charity in a good-hearted town.
Empty Bowls will again be filled for the 12th year as the major dual-fundraiser to feed the needy and cultivate culture in New Bern.
Amid the fellowship, homemade soups from local restaurants and a free bowl from the labors of regional potters, it has also raised a lot of money – about $300,000 since 2011.
Religious Community Services and Craven Arts Council, the beneficiaries, have shared $110,000 in just the past two years.
Empty Bowls each February have been one of the area’s most popular social fundraisers, averaging more than 700 attendees a year, with a spike to 923 in 2019 and 880 in 2020 at Tabernacle Church.