Take action against hunger through art.
Purchase locally-made bowls to support the Tempe community @ Tempe Public Library
10am – 2pm
Saturday, February 22, 2025.
Our Story
Tempe Empty Bowls began in February 2002, when the community came together to host its first event after nearly a year of planning. Spearheaded by a steering committee of faith organizations inspired to act on their beliefs to care for the hungry, the initiative quickly gained momentum. With guidance from the Tempe Community Council and the support of key partners like the Tempe Union High School District, City of Tempe, Tempe Elementary, and Whole Foods, the foundation was laid for what would become a cherished local tradition.
In 2007, the Tempe Community Action Agency (TCAA) stepped in as the sponsoring agency, bringing renewed vitality to the program. Proceeds from the sale of handcrafted bowls—each a symbol of the fight against hunger—are shared between TCAA and United Food Bank, directly aiding efforts to combat food insecurity. After celebrating its 20th anniversary in 2022, the event was entrusted to the TCAA Emerging Leaders Committee, ensuring the next generation carries its mission forward.
The Roots of the Empty Bowls Movement
Tempe’s event is part of a global movement that began in 1990 when a high school art teacher in Michigan challenged students to find a way to raise funds for a food drive. Their solution? A simple meal of soup and bread served in handmade ceramic bowls, which guests kept as a reminder of hunger in the world. By the following year, the concept had grown into the Empty Bowls project, supporting food banks, soup kitchens, and hunger relief organizations worldwide.
A Bowl Full of Hope
Each handcrafted bowl and every dollar raised represents a commitment to filling empty bowls with nourishment, hope, and a brighter future for all. Join us in continuing this legacy of care and compassion.
Proceeds Benefit
Thank you to our 2025 Sponsors:
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Tempe Community Council Impact Award Announcement
Tempe Empty Bowls was the 2020 recipient of the Tempe Community Council Impact Award. This award is part of the Don Carlos Humanitarian Award program, and goes to groups or organizations that have made a significant impact on Tempe. The group received their award during the Tempe Community Council 37th Annual Don Carlos Humanitarian Awards, which was held virtually on Wednesday, October 14, 2020.
Contact Us
Have questions? You can always email us or message us on Facebook.
tcaaemergingleaderscommittee@gmail.com
facebook.com/TempeEmptyBowls