ORANGE PARK – It wasn’t a gourmet meal, but everyone left the Orange Park United Methodist Church’s Family Life Center satisfied on Tuesday.

The 19^th annual Empty Bowls luncheon benefits the Salvation Army’s Women’s Auxiliary’s food pantry. It is one of the most significant fundraising events for the nonprofit.

“It brings a lot of awareness of the plights of a lot of people that don’t have enough to eat,” said Capt. Mike Chamberlain. “This supports our pantry efforts to help feed the community, so it really means that we’re doing the best we can with the resources to try and help.”

Guests picked out a ceramic bowl crafted by art classes at Lake Asbury Junior High, Oakleaf and Ridgeview highs, and St. John’s Country Day School. Then, each was served a bowl of chicken noodle soup or chili, a piece of bread and a glass of water. The meal signifies one that someone in need eats. Guests could also buy a dessert or participate in a silent auction for nearly 40 items.

Some of the volunteer servers included Supervisor of Elections Chris Chambless, Clerk of Courts Tara Green, Sheriff Michelle Cook, County Manager Howard Wanamaker, Army Ranger Maj. Ricky Lenior, Property Appraiser Tracy Drake and Attorney David King.

“We’re able to keep our shelves pretty well stocked so we can keep feeding people and supplying them with groceries,” Capt. Julie Chamberlain said.