Empty bowls fundraiser a much-needed boost for Martha’s Table

Martha's Table held its annual empty bowls fundraiser on Sunday. It helps raise money for meal programs for those in need.

Martha’s Table held its annual empty bowls fundraiser on Sunday. It helps raise money for meal programs for those in need, and this year’s couldn’t have come at a better time.

It was a full house and those who stopped in got the chance to enjoy a nice lunch.

The food was donated by local restaurants and local bakeries.

“The funds from all the tickets go directly to Martha’s Table, so we can continue to provide meals for those that need it. It’s a lovely family-friendly event, and we hope to continue it for as long as needed,” executive director Ronda Candy said.

This comes as demand for food banks and food security services have never been higher.

Martha’s Table, and many other food charities, have seen a dramatic increase in demand since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, and it’s showing no signs of slowing down.

“From 2019 to today, there’s been a 165 per cent increase. It’s very significant. We’ve struggled to keep up. Physically, having enough hours in the day to prepare the meals required, and the unexpected cost of takeout packaging, it’s really impacted our budget,” Candy said.

Another impact on Martha’s Table’s budget has been the record-high inflation rate.