The first Tempe Empty Bowls occurred in February 2002 after nearly a year of planning. Founding members of the steering committee were faith organizations interested in acting on their beliefs to care for the hungry. Since that time the steering committee has broadened its base, but has held true to its custom of having a bowl of soup made by a volunteer at every meeting.
Tempe Community Council lent guidance and counsel as the early programs were developed; they brought on board Tempe Union High School District, The City of Tempe, Tempe Elementary, and Whole Foods. In 2007 the sponsoring agency became Tempe Community Action Agency who has added vitality and energy to this project. Proceeds from the sale of the bowls is split between TCAA and United Food Bank.
Food insecurity is one of the early indicators of family economic crisis.
You can delay paying a bill for several weeks,
but you can't delay eating!
In 1990 a high school art teacher in Michigan helped his students solve a problem. They were searching for a way to raise funds to support a food drive. What evolved was a class project to make ceramic bowls for a fund raising meal. Guests were served a simple meal of soup and bread, and were invited to keep the bowl as a reminder of hunger in the world.
By the following year the originators had developed this concept into Empty Bowls, a project to provide support for food banks, soup kitchens, and other organizations that fight hunger. Since then Empty Bowls events have been held throughout the world, and millions of dollars have been raised to combat hunger.
Two Opportunities to Support Your Community
Tempe Empty Bowls is a free event held on two days at two locations. Come enjoy the great weather outside and listen to local entertainment. Both dates offer the opportunity to purchase beautiful hand-crafted bowls for a $10 donation. With your donation you will receive a simple meal of soup and bread generously provided by Whole Foods Market Tempe.
6th Street Park
Friday, February 21
st
11am - 2pm
East of Mill on 6th St.
Downtown Tempe
Tempe Library Complex
Saturday, February 22
nd
11am - 2pm
SW corner of Rural & Southern
Tempe
Music by Randy Olson and Friends
