Help the fight against hunger and enjoy a bowl of delicious soup at the 25th annual Empty Bowl Benefit Dinner on Nov. 12, hosted by the Community and Civic Engagement Center. Seatings are scheduled from 4:30 to 6 p.m. and from 6:30 to 8 p.m. in Grey Towers Castle.

This year, proceeds will be split between Philadelphia Interfaith Hospitality Network, a local agency that provides temporary shelter and food to homeless families, and Rise Against Hunger, an international program which provides crisis response, nutritious meals, and empowerment initiatives to those affected by natural disasters and those in impoverished areas.

Attendees choose a ceramic bowl that was handcrafted by a community member as their soup bowl. Soups, bread, and desserts have been generously donated by area businesses, restaurants, and individuals from Arcadia University and the surrounding community. Attendees take the bowl home, and it serves as a reminder that for many people around the world, an empty bowl is the reality of their mealtime.

Since its start in 1993, Empty Bowl has raised nearly $145,000 for international, national, and regional organizations. Last year, the event raised $9,350 for these two organizations and welcomed more than 650 people to campus.

Attendees are asked each year to purchase a ticket in advance or at the door, and donate one non-perishable item upon arrival. Tickets are $12 for students and children and $15 for adults.