Empty Bowls for TACO 2026 Wrap-Up!
- taco1800
- 1 day ago
- 2 min read
Hi, Everyone!
Thank you for helping make Empty Bowls for TACO 2026 such an incredible success!
On Saturday, May 9th, our community came together in such a beautiful way. TACO served approximately 200 guests and donated more than 65 gallons of soup from 11 local restaurants and kitchens. Guests selected from over 300 handcrafted ceramic and wooden bowls generously donated by local potters, ceramic artists, woodworkers, and the San Diego Fine Woodworkers Association.
Empty Bowls was one of TACO’s favorite annual fundraisers, and after its long pause during COVID, we truly missed gathering together in this way. Last year’s relaunch reminded us how much this event means to our community, and this year confirmed that Empty Bowls has once again become a cherished tradition.
One of the most special parts of the day was hearing stories from people who have attended Empty Bowls for years. Many shared memories of making this part of their Mother’s Day weekend tradition, coming together for soup, conversation, and community while supporting our neighbors in need. We loved seeing familiar faces return, along with new families attending for the very first time.
Financially, the event was a huge step forward for us. We raised nearly $10,000, almost doubling last year’s total, and came very close to reaching our fundraising goal. Those funds directly support TACO’s programs serving our unhoused and low-income neighbors in Downtown San Diego, including over 500 hot meals each week, clothing distribution, mail services for more than 1,600 individuals, showers, and support services.
A special thank you to Michael and Jerry for sharing their amazing music and helping create such a warm and welcoming atmosphere throughout the day! We are also incredibly grateful to every volunteer, donor, restaurant, artist, board member, and supporter who helped make the event possible.
If you were unable to attend or would still like to support Empty Bowls 2026, it is not too late to donate and help us reach our goal. Every dollar makes a difference and helps TACO continue serving those struggling with homelessness and poverty in our community. Click here to donate.
We are so proud of this caring and compassionate community. Thank you for continuing to show up for TACO and for our neighbors who need support the most.
We already look forward to seeing everyone next year at Empty Bowls 2027!
