Empty Bowls to Benefit Greater Lansing Food Bank at Troppo

Friday, a $20 donation will get you a one-of-a-kind bowl, cup of soup, bread and water at Troppo. 

As part of the Greater Lansing Food Bank’s 29 years of Empty Bowls, the lunch fundraiser assists in its efforts to plant community gardens, distribute and rescue food as well as outreach for federal assistance programs. 

The handmade bowls are crafted by members of Greater Lansing Potters Guild and Clayworks Pottery.

The potters guild has provided bowls to GLFB since it adopted the fundraiser from Red Cross, 29 years ago. 

"The whole concept of Empty Bowls started in Michigan and it’s national now," said guild member Liz Meyers. “We’re making about 300 bowls and then Clayworks will contribute about another 300. Some folks will also contribute bowls.”

Tina Oxer, a longtime member of the potters guild, said that the guild will have “bowlathons” in preparation for Empty Bowls, where they will spend several nights in a row to throw craft vessels.

Oxer added that the event decided to stop serving the soup in the custom bowls to use Styrofoam instead for sanitary purposes. 

“People were concerned because guests come in masses and they would pick up the bowls, feel them and look at the bottom so it wasn’t good for food.” Oxer said. 

Tickets to the annual event can be purchased beforehand or at the door for the same price of $20. 

“It’s unique in that is one venue that potters can generate income for the food bank,” said Meyers. “Twenty bucks, that’s a meal on the table. You make a bowl, you're feeding a family. So it’s exciting to think of it that way.”

Empty Bowls

Friday, Oct. 11, 11 a.m.- 1:30 p.m. $20

111 E. Michigan Ave.

www.greaterlansingfoodbank.org/events