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Special to the Courier
BASTROP — In 2024, the Bastrop County Emergency Food Pantry served a record-high 5,463 residents, distributing over 400,000 pounds of food.
As one in seven Bastrop residents experience food insecurity, according to the pantry, the county’s first line of defense against hunger looks to bolster services with its flagship fundraiser.
The 20th Annual Bastrop Empty Bowl event will take place Jan. 25, from 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., at the Bastrop Convention Center.
The fundraiser will feature soups, stews and chilies from the county’s top chefs, competing in the “battle of the ladles.” Attendees can sample dishes in a hand-painted bowl made by community members and vote for a fan favorite, while chef judges select the best in each category.
A silent auction will also include artwork, themed baskets and raffle items from local businesses and artists.
Tickets are $25 for adults, including bowls. Children under 12 are admitted free but do not receive a bowl. Tickets are available at bastropfoodpantry. org/events or at the door.
More information about sponsorships or how to donate items is available online.
