Photo by Pam Palmer

Several years ago, maybe even five, I came across the concept of the Empty Bowls project: a nationwide effort by potters to end hunger. At the time, the groups intention was to create an event where the issue of hunger could be raised, an event that would maintain a “high level of integrity; that is a project of inclusion; that cuts across social, political, racial, religion, age, and other perceived boundaries; and that provides a tool which we can use in working towards the goal of ending hunger.” (Quote taken from their Web site www.emptybowls.net).

So how does it work? Potters will do what they do best, they make ceramic bowls. You buy a bowl for a donation and we, the Co-op, fill it with soup— simple, yet satisfying. You get to enjoy a nourishing meal shared with your community, plus you get to take home a handmade bowl as a reminder of all the empty bowls waiting to be filled in the world. The potters donate the proceeds to local and international charities to help end hunger. This year we hope to have some “celebrity” bowls painted and signed by local celebrities and green-ware bowls that you can paint yourself. We are also planning to have live music and an education table about hunger provided by a local school group.