22 Apr 2024 The Purple Cow and Arkansas Food Bank unite to increase awareness and donations  

LITTLE ROCK  – With spring on the horizon, both the Arkansas Foodbank and The Purple Cow are gearing up for a collaborative effort that promises to make a tangible impact on hunger relief initiatives. 

This May, the Arkansas Foodbanks’ program Empty Bowls, will celebrate its 22nd anniversary on Saturday, May 18, 2024, from 5 to 8 p.m. at the Venue at Oakdale in Sherwood. Empty Bowls will honor long-time supporter Philip Tapan, for his dedication to the Foodbank’s mission. Philip Tappan, part of The Purple Cows’ ownership group, has dedicated an impressive 22 years to the Foodbank. His place on the board and his ingenuity in helping with large Foodbank initiatives will be recognized. Alongside this special honor, the Purple Cow Restaurant is not only offering their own donation, but they are helping to extend awareness to the community about donating and learning more about how to be more involved with the Arkansas Foodbank.

Philip Tappan’s time with the Foodbank has consisted of projects such as the “From Hunger to Hope Capital Campaign,” which led to the construction of the Foodbank’s state-of-the-art $14.5 million distribution center. Philip also stepped in to help with the “Get Shift Done” campaign during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. “His invaluable support helped us find displaced restaurant and hospitality workers, enabling us to maintain operations by packing food boxes for Pop-Up Pantries when traditional volunteers coming into our building were not an option due to Covid restrictions. His proactive approach significantly contributed to not only continuing our efforts to serve the community during challenging times but also giving restaurant workers the ability to support their families during Covid as well,” shared Arkansas Chief Programs Officer Sherri Jones. 

Ways that the community can get involved with The Purple Cow x Arkansas Foodbank spring initiatives are: guests can donate at any local Purple Cow restaurant at check out, choose to scan and donate independently at their dining table QR code signage, donate and learn more directly on the Purple Cows Partnership website page, or the Arkansas Foodbank website and by participating in the “Giveback Night” event on April 30th at all Purple Cow locations where a percent of proceeds will be directly donated.  Stay tuned to social media channels and websites for further updates. 

“In true Purple Cow fashion, we are dedicated to extending our impact beyond the dining experience. We commend the exceptional efforts of Philip Tappan and celebrate his well-deserved recognition for his 22 years of service to the Arkansas Foodbank. His leadership sets a commendable standard for all aspiring philanthropists,” remarked Purple Cow CEO Ken Vaughan.

Join The Purple Cow and Arkansas Foodbank in their collective efforts to raise awareness and donations this season.