Newsletter

October 2026

974 attendees. Two incredible events. OVER $56,000 raised!



What an incredible demonstration of community generosity! Thanks to the overwhelming support of our sponsors, donors, volunteers, and attendees, Empty Bowls 2026 raised over $56,000 to support the programs and services of 5Cities Homeless Coalition!

With 974 attendees joining us across our two events, this year's Empty Bowls was a wonderful reminder of what happens when a community comes together with a shared purpose: helping our neighbors find pathways to stability.

A Special Thank-You to Our Community Partners

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to St. Patrick's Catholic Church for graciously hosting our luncheon, and to their incredible kitchen crew and army of volunteers who kept everything running smoothly.

Thank you to St. John's Lutheran Church for providing a lovely space for the Pop-Up party. We could not have been as successful without you

Special recognition goes to the Arroyo Grande High School ceramic students, Astound Business Solutions, West Coast Community Bank, SLOCO Data, Altrusa International, and Cub Scout Troop 414 for generously contributing their time and talents.

And a delicious thank-you to Hubbalicious for providing wonderful ice cream and making a generous donation!

To every sponsor, restaurant, artist, donor, volunteer, and community member who helped make these two events possible: THANK YOU!

Every bowl served, every hour volunteered, and every dollar contributed helps 5Cities Homeless Coalition continue connecting individuals and families with the resources, support, and hope they need to move toward stability.

Together, we're making a difference, one bowl at a time.

For someone who has experienced homelessness, receiving the keys to a permanent home is a tremendous milestone. But opening that door is only the beginning.

When the first Cabins for Change graduates began moving into permanent housing, 5Cities Homeless Coalition recognized another important need: helping our newly housed neighbors establish their homes with everyday essentials.

That's how our Housewarming Kit initiative began.

What started as a way to support Cabins for Change graduates has grown to include individuals and families transitioning into housing through our Homeless Youth Services and Rapid Re-Housing programs.

These kits represent something greater than household necessities. They're a warm welcome, a celebration of progress, and a reminder that our community is cheering them on as they begin their next chapter.

Because finding housing changes a life. Helping make it a home is another way we can show we care.

Want to get involved? You can visit the Housewarming Amazon Wish List to have items sent directly to 5CHC, or a $500 sponsorship provides a complete housewarming kit to a family in need.

Join us for dinner under the stars!

Positive Impact Through Your Profession

Do you have a passion for positive change in your community, propelled by a profound sense of purpose?

Join the team of real change!

We're looking for dedicated, enthusiastic people ready to support our most vulnerable neighbors on their journey toward long-term, stable housing.

Want to learn more about how your impact can make a difference?

Please visit our website at www.5CHC.org/employement to see all the positive change opportunities!

Positive Impact Through Giving

Your donation provides stability, safety, and a path forward for local families.

Most Needed at the Warming Center

• New underwear*
• New sweatpants & sweatshirts*
• New socks*
• New beanies*
• Jackets*
• Scarves & gloves
• Bottled water
• Shelf-stable protein shakes
• Hygiene items & sunscreen

*All genders and sizes welcome.

Learn more about other giving opportunities on our website: www.5CHC.org/donate