Staff report
Barnabas Center announces the outstanding success of the 12th Annual Empty Bowls Luncheon, held on Nov. 25 at The Ritz-Carlton, Amelia Island, according to a recent release. This beloved community tradition once again brought neighbors together in a powerful show of compassion and commitment to ending hunger and food insecurity in Nassau County.
This year’s Empty Bowls event not only sold out but also met the $50,000 Henry Berghoef Memorial Challenge, generously funded by Leslie Berghoef in loving memory of her husband, Henry, the release said. All donations to the Challenge Fund were matched, doubling the impact of every gift and significantly strengthening Barnabas Center’s ability to provide food assistance for local families.
More than 1,000 hand-painted ceramic bowls were created by community members and volunteers during 71 bowl-painting sessions held in the Barnabas Center Community Studio, according to the release. These bowls served as meaningful reminders of the ongoing need to fill the “empty bowls” of our neighbors experiencing food insecurity. Additional artisan bowls were featured through the Empty Bowls Online Auction, raising funds for Barnabas Center’s nutrition and empowerment programs.
Barnabas Center extends heartfelt appreciation to the generous sponsors who made this year’s event possible, including the Delores Barr Weaver Forever Fund and Legacy sponsor, Baptist Medical Center Nassau, the release said.
Titanium Sponsors included two anonymous donors; The James and Dorothy Baer Foundation; Betty Berkman; Sheila and William Braddock; Liza and Terry Cotter; Judy and David Easterly; The Faith, Hope & Love Foundation; Andrea and Corky Hoffman; Melonie and Jeff Murphy; and The Ritz-Carlton, Amelia Island.
Presenting sponsors included an anonymous donor; Debbie and John Baechle; Wende and Michael Burdick; Eileen and Wayne Cole; Donna Lovely Photos; Jane and Jim DuCharme; First Presbyterian Church; Pam Fox and Jim Raycraft; Anne and Bill Gower; Betsy and Rod Odom; Publix Super Market Charities and Mary Anne Sharer.
This event would not be possible without the hundreds of dedicated volunteers who gave their time and talent—painting bowls, supporting event logistics, welcoming guests, and ensuring every detail contributed to a meaningful experience, according to the release. Their passion and service embody the spirit of neighbors helping neighbors.
Barnabas Center also thanks Greg Cook, General Manager, and the ladies and gentlemen of The Ritz-Carlton, Amelia Island, for their longstanding partnership. Their exceptional hospitality has helped make Empty Bowls a signature community tradition, the release said.
Event Co-Chairs Jane and Jim DuCharme shared, “It is a privilege to witness such compassion and generosity from our community. With the steadfast support of The Ritz-Carlton, our transportation sponsor Omni Resorts Amelia Island, generous donors, and committed volunteers, we are united in the effort to fill more bowls—and more hearts—across Nassau County.”
All proceeds from Empty Bowls support Barnabas Center’s mission to provide help and hope to individuals and families in need by improving stability, health, and well-being throughout Nassau County.
Barnabas Center’s mission is to provide help and hope to individuals and families in need throughout Nassau County, improving their stability, health, and well-being. Learn more at www.BarnabasNassau.org.n Fernandina Beach.
