Empty Bowls Utah: helping the needy for 10 years

Friday, Apr. 24, 2015

SALT LAKE CITY — For the past 10 years, the Empty Bowls fundraiser has helped to feed the hungry by donating all proceeds from the event to the St. Vincent de Paul Dining Hall, which is run by Catholic Community Services of Utah.

“Clay Arts Utah initiated the event, wanting a way to give back to the community through their art,” said Danielle Stamos, CCS’ public relations coordinator.

Empty Bowls is the perfect event for the community to get involved in, Stamos said, because it gives families an opportunity to enjoy live music, delicious food, face painting, a live clay throwing demonstration, and art.

“This event also greatly benefits CCS’ St. Vincent de Paul Dining Hall. Every day we are serving over 1,200 meals to low-income and homeless individuals and families,” said Stamos.

The sale of a single bowl can mean 8 1/2 meals for people in need, said Cynthia Xaiz Cool from Clay Arts Utah, a local nonprofit that organizes the annual Empty Bowls Utah. Many of the organization’s members make bowls to donate for the event.

 “These bowls are objects made with love and good intentions, and are a feel-good way to do something nice for yourself and feed the local hungry at the same time,” Angie Schneider, co-chairperson of the event, said in a press release.

“The need is great, and this is our only fundraiser/ event of the year to raise awareness of the issue of homelessness and hunger in our community,” added Stamos.

The funds raised will help CCS continue to serve those in need and help them reach self-sufficiency. 

About 700 bowls will be donated by local potters. Many were made at bowl-making parties at local studios such as Adjusting Sails and Red Kiln Pottery. Others were crafted by ceramics students at the University of Utah.

“Hundreds of local artists donate their beautiful pottery for this event, including many budding artists from Wasatch Elementary School,” said Stamos, adding that Empty Bowls serves as a “great tool to teach our children about the important of giving back while learning about art.”

During the event, local potters will hold a sale to benefit the St. Vincent de Paul Dining Hall. The price of bowls, which includes soup, bread, and drinks, varies up to $20. 

“Without the support of our community, CCS would not be able to continue providing our life-saving programs,” Stamos said. “Each person can make a difference in the fight against poverty and hunger, so come on down to enjoy the festivities and help someone in need.”

 

What: Empty Bowls Utah

When: Saturday, May 2, noon to 4 p.m.

Where: St. Vincent de Paul Dining Hall, 437 West 200 South, SLC

Free admission. Purchase of a bowl includes a meal of soup and bread.