The spring semester’s Empty Bowls event on April 16 raised $1,345 for three organizations: Brookdale’s Helping Hands, Bradley Food Pantry in Bradley Beach and Pantry and Loaves & Fishes in Union Beach. The Brookdale Employee Volunteer Connection, a group of Brookdale employees, students, retirees, alumni and others, organizes the event each year. The spring event took place at the Lincroft, Freehold and Wall campuses.

Individuals purchase ceramic bowls and also receive soup and/or dessert prepared and donated by staff and students from Brookdale’s Culinary Arts program for $6 or a free will donation. The event last year raised more than $1,400 for three organizations, including Brookdale’s Helping Hands.