From the left: Brinston potter Heidi Blokland, CFS Board Chair Dan Gasser, SDG MP Eric Duncan and CFS Operations Director Erin Huestis are pictured with some of the 150 bowls donated for the 2026 Empty Bowls fundraiser. Thompson Goddard Photo
WILLIAMSBURG – There was an impressive turnout for the 2026 Empty Bowls fundraising event hosted by Community Food Share (CFS) at the Williamsburg Christian Reformed Church in South Dundas on Sat., Feb. 2. Despite snowy and blustery weather, the community showed strong support, with 109 tickets sold for the event.
The lunch featured a selection of soups, breads and sweet treats, with SDG MP Eric Duncan commenting how it was a “perfect cold day for a hot bowl of soup for a good cause.” During the event those attending were able to visit with friends and neighbours, enjoy the food and perhaps bid on an item in the silent auction.
“This is a community effort” commented CFS Board Chair Dan Gasser, noting businesses from North Dundas as well as South Dundas provided the food for the meal. 150 bowls were donated by eight different potters, with Brinston potter Heidi Blokland coordinating the donation of bowls to the event. She mentioned this is a tangible way in which artisans can contribute, noting “It is always good to give back to your community.”
CFS Operations Director Erin Huestis expressed a word of thanks to the community for their support, for the volunteers for their dedication and the sponsors for their continued support.
More information on Community Food Share can be found on their Facebook page or website at www.communityfoodshare.ca.
Carolyn Thompson Goddard, grew up in Chesterville and attended North Dundas District High School. After completing her BA in Political Science at Carleton University she has worked as a medical secretary and library technician. In 2020 she graduated from Algonquin College with a diploma in Journalism and has been a reporter and column writer for The Chesterville Record for over 10 years.
