Hundreds entered Grey Towers Castle to celebrate and enjoy Arcadia’s 21st Annual Empty Bowl Benefit Dinner on Nov. 17. Attendees selected handcrafted ceramic bowls made by Arcadia students, professional potters, and local elementary and high school students, filling them with delicious soups, breads, and desserts donated by local restaurants such as the Allways Cafe, Anne’s Kitchen Table, 211 York, and Panera Bread.

Students and visitors were in strong spirits, knowing that they were helping others by simply eating and spending time with friends and family. Several Arcadia alumni returned to volunteer for the event, as well.

“I think it’s great that people can eat for a cause,” said Talia Giles ’18. “I’m excited to volunteer for the second half [of the event].”

The event raised more than $13,000 to help fight hunger and homelessness in U.S. cities and around the world. Proceeds go to the Interfaith Hospitality Network, a local agency that provides temporary shelter and food to homeless families and Heifer International, which provides food and income-producing animals and training in management and farming around the world to families in need.

In its 21 years, the Empty Bowl Benefit Dinner has raised more than $125,000.

Photo by Jordan Cameron ’17