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The Franklin High School Empty Bowls Club in partnership with the Franklin Food Pantry, hosted its 10th Annual Empty Bowls Fundraiser on Thursday, May 22, 2025, at Franklin High School, raising more than $17,000 to combat food insecurity in the community. Guided by Franklin High School teacher Brenna Johnson, the club empowers students to use their artistic talents and community spirit to bring awareness of hunger. The milestone event brought together students, families, and local businesses in a powerful demonstration of community support, centered around the reminder “Somewhere, someone’s bowl is empty.”
Empty Bowls Club Members provided approximately 200 attendees with a simple supper of soup and bread. Each person received a unique, hand-crafted ceramic bowl made by a student, serving as a tangible symbol of the club's mission. The evening also featured a silent auction with original works of art, live music by The Zajac Brothers, face painting, and a selfie booth.
"The 10th anniversary of the Empty Bowls fundraiser is a testament to the community partnership between The Pantry and the Franklin High School Empty Bowls Club and dedicated advisor Brenna Johnson.” said Tina Powderly, Executive Director, Franklin Food Pantry. “This student-led event, which has raised more than $109,000 over 10 years, has endured and grown, and speaks volumes about the values of our town and the heart of our young people. We are so grateful for their ongoing support, which has a direct and significant impact on the lives of our neighbors. “
The Richard J. Johnson Empty Bowls Scholarships, renamed this year in honor of Brenna Johnson’s father and funded by the Franklin Food Pantry, were awarded in the amount of $500 each to graduating seniors Isabella Kabat and Cleo St. Vrain Lary.
Additionally, Brenna Johnson was recognized during the event by the State Representative Jeff Roy and the Massachusetts House of Representatives and Senate for exemplary community service.
The success of this year's event was made possible by the generous support of numerous sponsors: Allegra Marketing, Print, and Mail, School of Rock Franklin, Franklin Cultural Council, Next9Up, b. LUXE, Eagle Stainless Tube and Fabrication, Fenton Financial Group, Franklin Matters, Mount Street Farm, QRGA Certified Public Accountants, Advanced European Auto Repair, All Around Gymnastics Academy, The Baur Family, The Danz & Coates Family, Elizabeth's Bagels & More, Knights of Columbus #1847, and Grove Street Auto Repair.
The Pantry offers assistance to individuals and households in Franklin, Massachusetts. If you or someone you know is experiencing food insecurity, we may be able to help. For more information visit our website at www.franklinfoodpantry.org, or call 508-528- 3115.
