Full Tables for Empty Bowls

Hundreds of people turned out Friday evening to help Phoenixville Area Community Services feed the hungry and help local families.

Volunteers from several community groups, schools, teams and the public came together to raise money in the seventh annual Empty Bowls event.  It was the first year for the event at the Kimberton Fire Hall.

For soup chef Jack Franz it's a labor of love.  This the third year the TCHS Pickering senior has volunteered.  The culinary student made nine gallons of Potato Leek and nine gallons of Italian Sausage soup.  Camp Hill Soltaine provided the bread.  Artists range in experience from fourth graders to professionals donated 890 custom made ceramic bowls for patrons to take home as keepsakes. (The soup was actually served in disposable bowls for rather than in the decorator custom bowls).

Softball players from the Kimberton Krush (sic) U-16 and U-14 teams helped serve tables. Many local merchants also donated items for a silent auction.

PACS Executive Director Carol Berger says the money raised will help the group serve 1600 people with food, utility bills and other basic necessities.