Our Mission
Food for Thought exists to create a community where the hunger for food, respect, and belonging is met for all people. More than 60,000 in Lucas County are food insecure. Of that number, almost 20,000 are children under the age of 17. Hunger knows no boundaries – it touches every U.S. community, including yours. The lack of enough nutritious food has profound effects on one’s health, increasing the risk of chronic diseases and impacting mental health. For children, it can significantly hinder their development. Through our programs and partnerships, we believe that everyone deserves to be seen, heard, and nourished – body and soul.
Empty Bowls
Empty Bowls brings our community together around a simple meal of soup and bread 🍲. Each handcrafted bowl is a reminder that no one in Toledo should face an empty table or feel alone. This lunchtime event offers a variety of delicious soups from some of the area’s best chefs served in handcrafted bowls, courtesy of the members of the Toledo Potters Guild. Your support of this event helps Food for Thought’s mission to feed our neighbors thoughtfully.
Get your tickets here
Annual Reports
Food for Thought is dedicated to feeding and nourishing our community. Born with a vibrant heart to care for the poor and hungry and offer both food and friendship. It is this heart and consistency that we want to not only preserve but strengthen in the years ahead. It’s more about the Thought then it is the Food.
See our Annual Reports for more information on our past, present, and future.
2024 Annual Report
2021 Annual Report
2019-2020 Annual Report
2018 Annual Report
A Year In Review - 2025
Since 2007, Food for Thought has been feeding the Toledo area in a thoughtful and intentional manner. It takes donors, volunteers, farmers, and community partners to create this amazing place where everyone belongs and economic status does not isolate anyone from connecting to those around them. Thanks to the exceptional generosity of our supporters, Food for Thought continues to provide a community for those in need and serve everyone we encounter with dignity and respect. Thank You!
27,449
People Served
6,898
Children Served
15,000
PB&J Lunches Distributed
