Each year, Mid-Ohio Valley residents get a reminder of the deep community commitment to trying to tackle the problem of food insecurity in our region. Over the weekend, the 26th annual Empty Bowls of the Mid-Ohio Valley Luncheon again gave attendees an opportunity to help raise money for food pantries in Marietta, Williamstown, Parkersburg and Belpre.

It’s a small part of a global effort Caroline Putnam, a member of the Unitarian Universalist Church in Marietta, learned about back in 2000. After finding out about Michigan potters who made bowls to be filled with soup to combat hunger, she organized the first local Empty Bowls event in 2001.

The folks at the church are not alone, of course. Each year the event grows, though it is a shame to have to note that the need seems to grow each year, too. Across the region, help comes from high schools, artist co-ops, individual donors and other students. Volunteers from area churches and community organizations gather to help. Texas Roadhouse donated the soup. Fraternal organizations and others from local colleges pitch in.

“It’s a big community effort for a big community function — for the community, to help the community,” said Carol Garoza, co-chair of the event.

It’s wonderful to think of such a concerted effort.

But, even better, “All the money we make, we distribute to the food pantries,” she said.

Southeast Ohio suffers with rates of poverty and food insecurity higher than those in other parts of the state. We must therefore remain active with events such as Empty Bowls and in our daily lives to fight the problem in any way we can.

Thank you, to those who for 26 years have organized the Empty Bowls event as one weapon in the arsenal.