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SARASOTA – Thousands of people and bowls filled Ed Smith Stadium for the annual Bowls of Hope.

The event raises awareness of families who don’t have a warm meal to eat during the holidays.

Around 40 restaurants and vendors from the Suncoast provided food. Local artist and children donated the handmade bowls. Each bowl is a reminder of the empty plates they will help to fill.

“I would like people to be mindful that this time of year the need is even greater,” said Sandra Frank, CEO of All Faith Food Bank. “Specially for children who are also out of school they’re on vacation this time of year and they will need food as well. Be mindful of that, that people are in need as the holiday comes around.”

All proceeds go to the All Faith Food Bank. Around twelve hundred tickets were sold this year.