CULLMAN, Ala. – Monday night’s 17th annual Empty Bowls of Cullman County Chili Dinner saw a large crowd come through First United Methodist Church Cullman’s doors, all in the name of charity. The dinner benefits the Cullman Caring for Kids food bank. Guests enjoyed chili, grilled cheese sandwiches, live music and a silent auction, and each received a hand-thrown clay bowl, crafted by local potters, as a thank you.
Several civic groups, including the Cullman Area Chamber of Commerce Youth Leadership Cullman County, Wallace State Community College Rotaract Club and Boy Scout Troop 219, served, along with many other volunteers, to help make the event a success. Students from Good Hope Primary School colored the placemats for the tables.
The silent auction was full of items donated by dozens of local businesses. Items included cakes, trips, jewelry and family outings.
Cullman Caring for Kids Executive Director Javon Daniel said that in years past, Empty Bowls has raised between $14,000-$16,000 for the organization’s food bank. He said each dollar donated allows the food bank to purchase approximately 7 pounds of food.
“We hope to break the record tonight,” smiled Daniel. “The Empty Bowls committee works so hard every year and deserves the credit.”
This year’s Empty Bowls dinner was dedicated in memory of longtime potter Wes Abbott. Abbott, 90, passed away in June 2019.
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