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Bright Spot: Empty Bowls event fills hearts, stomachs in Itasca County

A circular table holds pottery items, surrounding a large cornucopia.
Contributed
/
Penny Holcomb
Bowls on display at the Itasca Empty Bowls event in 2023.

The annual fundraiser for Community Café, which provides free meals in Grand Rapids and Deer River, is 11 a.m.-2 p.m. and 4-7 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 24, at Timberlake Lodge.

GRAND RAPIDS — Each year, the Itasca Empty Bowls Project brings awareness to hunger in the local area.

The community gathering has occurred since 2001 and serves as the main fundraiser for the Community Café, which provides nutritious, four-course meals free of charge in Grand Rapids and Deer River.

This year’s event features bowls crafted by over 15 local artists coordinated by Katie Marshall from MacRostie Art Center, as well as contributions from independent artists. The handcrafted bowls — each one unique — serve as a lasting reminder of the impact every donation makes.

"Hunger can happen in many different ways," said Community Café Executive Director John Weber on the KAXE Morning Show. "Whether it's due to job loss, unexpected expenses, or simply a tough month, we’re here to help."

Meals are served 4:30-6 p.m. Mondays, Tuesdays and Thursdays at the Kiesler Wellness Center in Grand Rapids, as well as Mondays through Thursdays at King Elementary School in Deer River.

The Community Café operates on a model of both food and fellowship. Guests not only receive a hot meal but also find a welcoming community, Weber said. The importance of this human connection is emphasized by the Café’s team and volunteers.

"It’s not just about food — it’s about being together," he said.

Empty Bowls

The Empty Bowls event has been a cornerstone of the organization's support. This year's fundraiser is 11 a.m.-2 p.m. and 4-7 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 24, at Timberlake Lodge in Grand Rapids.

Guests who attend the event will enjoy soups provided by 20 local restaurants, with flavors ranging from classic clam chowder to more adventurous creations.

"You’ll have to come to see what’s on the menu!" Weber teased during the interview.

In addition to soup, each ticket holder will choose their own bowl to take home — a piece of art shaped by local hands.

Chris Fulton, a board member of the Community Café, noted how each bowl represents the heart and soul of the community. "You’re not just taking home a bowl — you’re taking home a piece of our community."

Fulton, who has attended the event every year since moving to the area 12 years ago, emphasized the unique and personal nature of the fundraiser.

"Human hands have shaped and painted each one of these bowls. They’re not just a token — they’re a symbol of the work being done to ensure that everyone in our community can share a meal," he said.

While the Empty Bowls event is expected to draw around 700 attendees, not everyone can make it in person. For those who can’t attend, Weber and Fulton encourage donations via the Community Café’s website.

"Even if you can’t be there, you can still make a difference," Fulton said, reminding listeners the Café relies on donations to continue serving meals throughout the year.


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The Bright Spot is made possible by the Minnesota Arts and Cultural Heritage Fund and the citizens of Minnesota.

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Jennifer has worked at Northern Community Radio since 2006 and spent 17 years as Membership Manager. She shifted to a host/producer position in 2023. She hosts the Monday Morning Show and is the local host of National Public Radio's "All Things Considered" a few days a week. She also writes public services announcements and creates web stories.