Empty Bowls returns for fifth year

Northwest Missouri State University ceramics students and art faculty will host the fifth annual Empty Bowls fundraiser from 5-8 p.m. Friday, March 8, at The Station, a campus conference center located on Northwest Drive between College Park and Icon Road.

Sponsored by the Clay Club, the Empty Bowls supper is designed to raise both awareness and money in order to combat hunger in the Maryville area. All proceeds are donated to the Maryville Ministry Center food pantry. Last year’s event raised more than $2,000.

The supper features bowls and cups made by Northwest art students and local potters.

After the meal Clay Club volunteers wash the vessels so that participants can take them home as a souvenir of the evening.

Local businesses donating food for the event include the Mandarin Restaurant, Simply Siam, A&G, Happy Garden, Benelli's Pizzeria and Northwest Campus Dining.

"The bowl will serve to remind us that there are empty bowls out there every day and night, and that hunger and access to good nutrition are vital issues in every community," said Laura Kukkee, Northwest associate professor of art.

"This is a chance for our community to come together to support a worthy cause and to celebrate the effort and generosity of the students, local potters and the local restaurants that participate in this unique, heartwarming event."

Cost is $15 for a bowl, meal and door prize ticket or $25 for a bowl, cup, meal and door prize ticket. Guests should pay in cash or with a check made out to the Ministry Center.

For more information, email Laura Kukkee at Kukkee@nwmissouri.edu or call (660) 562.1324.