Empty Bowls is an international project to fight hunger ; the concept is utilized by organizations on a community level . The '' Empty Bowls Luncheon '' in Jacksonville is an annual fundraiser , first held in 1985 . It is scheduled in mid-November , prior to Thanksgiving and marks the beginning of the Christmas season . The symbolic bowls are hand-made by school children in art classes , civic groups and seniors at activity centers , so no two bowls are identical . They vary in size , shape , color and quality . Each ticket holder is entitled to select a bowl as a keepsake to remind them of the problem of hunger . Several thousand people typically attend , so the event is held at the Prime F. Osborn III Convention Center . Those attending will receive a meal of soup and bread served by local celebrities , bid on items in a silent auction , and be entertained by local talent and school groups . Corporate sponsorships are available to help reach the $ 100,000 goal
Prime F. Osborn III Convention Center
Prime F. Osborn III Convention Center
Second Harvest North Florida