Experience the Taste of Community: Food Bank RGV’s 19th Annual Empty Bowls Luncheon
Join Us for a Meaningful Culinary Celebration
On October 21, 2025, the Food Bank of the Rio Grande Valley invites you to partake in a heartwarming event—the 19th Annual Empty Bowls Luncheon and Silent Auction, proudly presented by H-E-B Hunger Relief. This engaging gathering will take place from 11:00 AM to 1:30 PM at the Bert Ogden Arena in Edinburg.
What is Empty Bowls?
The Empty Bowls luncheon is more than just a meal; it’s a community initiative aimed at combatting hunger in the Rio Grande Valley. Guests will indulge in a delightful selection of culinary offerings from over 30 local restaurants, creating a festive atmosphere of fellowship and good food.
Emceed by the charismatic Tim Smith from KRGV and JoJo Cerda from KTEX, this event promises an afternoon of delicious bites, lively interactions, and a silent auction filled with extraordinary items, including two luxury raffle prizes.
The Impact of Your Contribution
Each ticket purchased helps fight food insecurity, providing up to five meals for those in need with every dollar raised. Attendees will also receive a beautifully hand-painted ceramic bowl as a memento, symbolizing the ongoing battle against hunger in our community. As Libby A. Saenz, CEO of Food Bank RGV, aptly states, "Every bowl shared and every contribution helps nourish families across the Rio Grande Valley."
Sponsor Contributions
A heartfelt thank you goes out to the sponsors who make this event possible. The Title and Presenting Sponsor, H-E-B Hunger Relief, will facilitate the provision of 125,000 meals for the local community. Other significant supporters, known as Watermelon Sponsors, such as Junior’s Supermarket, Vantage Bank, and AEP Energy, each contribute 50,000 meals. Furthermore, the Grapefruit Sponsors, including Walmart, Fiesta Chevrolet Edinburg, and the Rotary Club of Edinburg, provide 25,000 meals each.
What to Expect at the Event
Guests can look forward to:
- Unlimited tasting sessions featuring a variety of bites from participating restaurants.
- Access to a silent auction with unique items.
- Raffles with exciting luxury prizes.
- A hand-painted ceramic bowl to take home.
Ticket Information
Tickets are priced at $36, plus applicable fees. They can be purchased at the Bert Ogden Arena box office or via the Bert Ogden Arena website.
For More Information
For additional details regarding the event, sponsorship opportunities, or restaurant participation, please contact Philip Farias at 956-904-4513 or via email at pfarias@foodbankrgv.com. To learn more about the Food Bank RGV and the Empty Bowls Luncheon, visit foodbankrgv.com.
Engage with Your Community and Make a Difference
By joining the Empty Bowls Luncheon, you’re not just sampling incredible food—you’re engaging in a community effort aimed at ending hunger in the Rio Grande Valley. Mark your calendar, gather your friends, and get ready for an event that represents the spirit of unity and compassion.
Image: Food Bank RGV’s Empty Bowls Luncheon will provide a diverse array of culinary experiences, emphasizing the celebration of community and the fight against hunger.
