The Empty Bowls Luncheon is back in-person on April 15 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at First Presbyterian Church in Marietta. (File Photo)

MARIETTA — To help those in need fill their bowls and combat hunger, the Empty Bowls committee will hold the first in-person annual luncheon April 15 after a two year hiatus.

“We are fortunate to live in this charming, caring and creative community. For some of our community members, however, having the necessities of life presents a huge challenge,” a press release from the local committee said. “Although many people in the area support the Mid-Ohio Valley food pantries, the need is often greater than the supply.”

Southeast Ohio food banks reported one in six individuals and one in four children struggle with hunger, committee members said on the Facebook event.

An art teacher from Michigan started the concept in the 1990s with the idea of people getting together, sharing a meal and donating money or supplies to local food pantries.

Caroline Putnam started the local program in 2001 and “would be heartened to observe the community members, churches, colleges and the Marietta Community Foundation working together to eradicate food insecurity,” according to the release.

During the pandemic, people were able to donate online but the organization did not have a luncheon.

“Our community has done a wonderful job in helping support the local food pantries through these online fundraisers,” committee members said on the Facebook event.

The menu will be homemade soups, bread and cookies and the cost is $15. Each attendee will receive a unique, handmade bowl crafted by a local student, artist or hobbyist and there will be a silent auction.

The Empty Bowls Luncheon is April 15 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the First Presbyterian Church, 501 Fourth St., Marietta.