Texas Border Business
PHARR, Texas – The Food Bank of the Rio Grande Valley is honored to recognize a generous Hall of Fame-level sponsorship from Vantage Bank, along with the James W. and Kathleen C. Collins Family Foundation and the Loring Cook Foundation, in support of the 20th Annual Empty Bowls event. This top-tier sponsorship will help provide 100,000 meals to individuals and families across Hidalgo, Cameron and Willacy counties.
As the Food Bank RGV’s premier fundraising event, Empty Bowls is a highly anticipated luncheon and silent auction that brings together community leaders, professionals and local restaurants for an afternoon of connection and purpose. Guests enjoy tastings from more than 35 participating restaurants while networking and supporting a cause that impacts thousands of families across the Rio Grande Valley.
The 20th Annual Empty Bowls event will take place Tuesday, Sept. 29, 2026, from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at Bert Ogden Arena in Edinburg. Tickets will be available closer to the event at BertOgdenArena.com. Attendees will also have the opportunity to select a hand-painted bowl to take home as a reminder of the ongoing need in our community and the role each of us can play in helping ensure every family has access to food.
Support at the Hall of Fame level represents a meaningful investment in the Food Bank RGV’s mission, helping sustain daily operations, strengthen partnerships with local pantries and expand access to nutritious food through programs that serve children, families and seniors.
“The generosity of Vantage Bank, along with the James W. and Kathleen C. Collins Family Foundation and the Loring Cook Foundation, reflects the strength of partnerships that make our work possible,” said Libby A. Saenz, CEO of the Food Bank RGV. “We are deeply grateful for their support at the Hall of Fame level, which will help ensure families across the Rio Grande Valley have access to the food they need.”
Funds raised through Empty Bowls directly support the Food Bank RGV’s efforts to provide emergency food assistance, distribute fresh produce and deliver programs that reach neighbors where they are. From school-based initiatives to mobile distributions and Resource Centers, every dollar raised helps extend the Food Bank’s reach and impact, helping ensure that children, families, seniors and those experiencing hardship have consistent access to food across the Rio Grande Valley.Businesses and individuals interested in supporting the event through sponsorship opportunities are encouraged to contact Philip Farias at 956-904-4513 or email pfarias@foodbankrgv.com. For more information
