The History of Empty Bowls

For 17 years, St. Vincent de Paul has celebrated the annual tradition of Empty Bowls to help fight hunger in our community. But the concept has a longer history.

The first Empty Bowls event was organized by a Michigan art teacher in 1990 to help support a local food drive. He had his students create ceramic bowls to distribute at a simple fundraising dinner, filled with food donated by local restaurants. Each attendee was able to enjoy a delicious meal, then take home the empty bowl as a keepsake. The intention was to remind them of the hunger that exists in the world—long after the event was over. Today, Empty Bowls events are celebrated across the country and beyond.

Our own version of Empty Bowls may be a bit larger and livelier than that first celebration, but the concept remains the same. Corporate sponsors, organizations, and local restaurants all come together in fellowship to continue the work of getting nutritious food to those who need it most. It's a celebration that attracts contributions of funds, time, and talent from across the entire community! The last, important link in that chain of support is you—the ticket holder.

The cost of a single ticket provides up to 10 nutritious meals for our hunger service clients. While delicious food and lively entertainment are also included with that $35 ticket, the larger benefit is being a part of an annual tradition of community and caring.

To the local businesses, restaurants, organizations, volunteers, and community members who are making the 17th Annual Empty Bowls more memorable than ever, we thank you! To those who haven’t purchased a ticket yet, what are you waiting for?

The 17th Annual Empty Bowls is this Saturday, April 22nd at the Maryland State Fairgrounds from 4pm-7pm.

To purchase tickets or donate, visit vincentbalt.givesmart.com. For more information, visit emptybowlsbaltimore.org.