SHARON, Pa, - When it comes to feeding the Valley's hungry, the Community Food Warehouse of Mercer County reminds us there is no slow season and the need is always there.

Wednesday evening, hundreds of community members came out to the James E. Winner Jr. Arts & Culture Center to show their support and take part in The Mercer County Empty Bowls Project.

Executive Director Lori Weston says the Empty Bowls Project is symbolic of all those who do not have enough food to fill their plates.

"There are people in our country, in our county, here in Mercer County that have empty bowls for dinner, for lunch, for breakfast," said Weston.

The fundraiser offered a simple meal of donated soup and bread. Individuals also went home with a handcrafted bowl, to serve as a simple reminder.

"We'd like people to actually take that bowl home put it somewhere you are going to see it everyday so that it reminds you everyday that there are people less fortunate than you and maybe you can help," said Weston.

About 700 bowls were donated. Each bowl was uniquely crafted by local artists and area students.

Volunteer and Potter Anna "Nuch" Houlihan says, students involvement is a key part of the Empty Bowls Project.

"Before I started working or volunteering at Community Food Warehouse I didn't even know about the need in the Valley, so it's just about education and why not start it young," said Houlihan.

According to the Community Food Warehouses web site, for every dollar donated they can distribute 9 lbs. of food, 7 meals or $15 worth of grocery items.

"Anybody can make a difference and so it just takes one person," said Weston.

For more on how you can help, visit www.foodwarehouse.org