As a reminder that those struggling with hunger deal with empty bowls every day, the Georgia Mountain Food Bank is holding its annual fundraiser Tuesday.

The Empty Bowl Lunch is set for 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Tuesday in the banquet hall at First Baptist Church, 751 Green St. Cost of the lunch is $25 per ticket.

The event is in its third year and has been held at First Baptist all three years, according Kay Blackstock, the food bank’s executive director.

"All proceeds do go to the food bank," Blackstock said. "It is our only official fundraiser."

Students from Gainesville and Flowery Branch high schools, Brenau University and North Georgia College are making soup bowls for the event.

"All of the bowls will be displayed at the event and each guest chooses a bowl to take home as a reminder of the empty bowls in our community," Blackstock said.

All of the food is donated by local restaurants, most of which have supported the event all three years, Blackstock said. The buffet-style meal features a variety of dishes from 2Dog, Johnny’s BBQ, Turnstile Deli, Chili’s, Cici’s Pizza, Moe’s Southwestern Grill, Bojangles, Elmo’s Kitchen and Ryan’s. Individuals also have donated dishes, desserts, breads and crackers, soft drinks, Blackstock said.

The organization still is accepting donations of soup, casseroles, breads and desserts.

Advance tickets are available by contacting Randi Dyer at the food or First Baptist Church. Tickets also can be purchased the day of the event.

On Saturday, the food bank distributed food to area families in support of Hunger Action Month. The food was provided through the U.S. Department of Agriculture as part of the federal stimulus act. A second food distribution is planned for next month, though no date has been set.