FAB Friday was an event brought together by the collaborative efforts of the Artist Enclave of Denton County, Musicians Against Gun Violence, 7Feathers, and The Bearded Monk this past Friday evening to raise awareness and funds for Our Daily Bread.

Walking up to the Monk at 7pm with the smell of brick oven pizza in the air from TX Fire Pies and fresh ink from the Nice Dudes Servicing Craft live screen printing was just the beginning of a fantastic evening of music and community. As you opened the back door to enter the Bearded Monk, you were met with warm embraces and the clinking of pints. There was already a line forming at the bar top, the sounds of musicians warming up, and a full house of families, volunteers, old and new friends ready to celebrate the continued achievements that belong to one of Denton’s longest standing soup kitchens. Our Daily Bread has been around for 16 years, and spent the past 3 as a registered 501(c)3 Non-Profit Organization. 

Sharon Kremer, a member of the board of directors for Our Daily Bread, was thrilled with the success of the evening. With more than 200 people coming through the doors, it was no secret how much the hard work of this organization means to the community. 

“These events mean awareness and it means spreading our reach," Kremer says. "We always are in need of more volunteers, and we have seen 40% growth by adding two additional meals each day.”  In addition to feeding the homeless and hungry of Denton County, they offer a long list of other services to help take care of those in need.  "ODB offers medical clinic access, we have shower passes, and do our very best to make sure our clients are hydrated," Kremer says. "We also try and personalize our services by celebrating holidays, and on September 12th we will celebrate our 700,000 meal being served. I expect us to reach 1 million in the next two years as we continue to broaden our offerings to the local community and Denton County.”

Too Soft and the Smooth Smells, followed by the talented Matt Grisgby, filled our ears with sweet sounds until headliner Tall Grass took up at the front of the craft beer and growler store for what ended up being the final 3 music sets of the night. With standing room only, there were delicious samples being brought around from Cakes with Alt, kids hula hooping outside, and a continuous stream of people coming in and out of the establishment to fill their pints and quench their musical appetites. The event ended with piles of donations, stacks of bottled water, and whispers of an after party. These separate organizations uniting around a common cause and passion, truly encompass what Denton and this community are capable of.