EFN brings food drive, Empty Bowls

Emergency Food Network (EFN) and the Lakewood Police Department will host the 15th Annual Fallen Officers Food Drive on Thursday, Dec. 5. Community members are encouraged to bring food and monetary donations to drop off from 6 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. at the Lakewood Police Department located at 9401 Lakewood Dr. SW. There will also be a blood drive on-site (appointment required) from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. to further support our community. 

The Fallen Officers Food Drive was created in 2009 in memory of four Lakewood officers who tragically lost their lives in the line of duty on Nov. 29, 2009: Sgt. Mark Renninger, officers Ronald Owens, Tina Griswold, and Greg Richards. Since then, the Lakewood Police Department and EFN have held this annual event to honor the service of our fallen heroes by helping feed those in need. Now in its 15th year, this food drive has provided over 720,000 meals to families and individuals in Pierce County. 

“Every donation made during this event helps ensure that families across Pierce County have the food they need, showing that together, we can create a meaningful impact in memory of those we have lost,” says EFN CEO Michelle Douglas. 

On Dec. 5, officers and volunteers will be present to collect donations, but contributions are welcome anytime at the Lakewood Police Department from Dec. 2-9. Food drive bins will also be located at the following businesses during these dates: Lakewood City Hall, Blue Steele Coffee, Lakewood Classy Chassis Car Wash and Detail, Lakewood Classic Coffee, and UP Classic Coffee. 

Donate online at tinyurl.com/bxyva9v2.

EMPTY BOWLS RETURNS

Mark your calendars! On Saturday, Dec. 7, Emergency Food Network’s (EFN) beloved Empty Bowl event returns! This year, for the first time ever, the event will be held at EFN’s newly opened warehouse, The Greens. Celebrate the season of giving at this special event, which shines a light on Pierce County’s creativity, compassion, and commitment to ending hunger. 

Empty Bowls is a global initiative that unites communities in the fight against hunger, bringing together local artists and delicious food for a meaningful cause. Join in and shop from an extensive collection of beautiful, handcrafted bowls in a variety of colors, sizes, and styles, all made by talented Washington artists. Guests can also enjoy a selection of delicious soups donated by local restaurants and participate in family-friendly activities, making it a perfect outing for all ages. Admission is free. 

“We’re thrilled to host this year’s Empty Bowls at our new warehouse, The Greens,” said Michelle Douglas, EFN CEO. “It’s a really meaningful way to showcase the heart of our work and how the community’s support helps us serve those in need.” 

Empty Bowls directly supports EFN's mission of providing nutritious food to over 75 food pantries, meal sites, and shelters throughout Pierce County. Last year, EFN distributed 14 million pounds of food to meet the growing need, and that need continues to climb. Currently, EFN’s food pantry partners are overwhelmed with serving more than 250,000 visits per month. 

Stop by Empty Bowls to support Pierce County artists and neighbors in need. The event will be held from 1-3 p.m. in The Greens, located at 3311 92nd St. S., Lakewood. Proceeds will help EFN continue to stock shelves and support those in need. 

For more information about the event, visit efoodnet.org/events.