Empty Bowls event raises funds, hunger awareness

ALBANY — The Event Center at the Northwest Library branch was filled for the highly anticipated Empty Bowls event, with 160 people in attendance. This annual event is a partnership between the Sowega Council on Aging and the Albany Area Arts Council.

The Empty Bowls event is a fundraising initiative for the Council on Aging’s Home Delivered Meals program and the Albany Area Arts Council’s gallery exhibitions for local artists. Tickets were sold at $40, and attendees were able to sample soups prepared by different caterers, restaurants and local chefs. They also chose a handcrafted pottery piece created by local artists to take home.

The event not only raises funds for the two nonprofit organizations, it also raises awareness about senior hunger in the community.

“Seniors are one of the most vulnerable groups of individuals experiencing hunger in the community,” Izzie Sadler, the executive director of the Sowega Council on Aging, said. “As such, raising awareness about senior hunger is a crucial initiative for the organization.”

The Council on Aging aims to combat senior hunger through its Home Delivered Meals program, which provides healthy and nutritious meals for seniors. Senior hunger issues are complex, Sadler noted, and the community needs to work together to find sustainable solutions. By 2030, an estimated one in five people will be over the age of 65, and it’s important to find ways to support this growing population.

Several caterers, restaurants and chefs showcased their culinary skills at this year’s Empty Bowls event. Attendees had the opportunity to try different soups and treats from The Willis Country Home Bed and Breakfast, 229Vegan, Chef Hazel, Tater Saladz, BJ’s Country Buffet, Southern Elegance and The Cakery.

Handcrafted pottery pieces also were a hit. The unique pottery was provided by artisans Kirby Gregory, Stacey Porter Brown with The Clay Spot, Scott Marini and Albany State University’s Visual and Performing Arts Ceramics Department, Cheryl and Stephen Hinson with Orchard Potters, Allyson Jones with Allyson Jones Designs, and Britt David Cultural Arts Studio. Plants were provided by Rodney Wilson with Green Envy.

Albany Area Arts Council Director Nicole Williams said the event is not only about raising funds for a meaningful cause but also about bringing different parts of the community together.

“This is a heart-warming event that brings people together to work toward a meaningful cause in a way that is tangible and visible,” Williams said. “We thank everyone who participated: ticket purchasers, local artists and businesses that donated their time and resources.”

Special Photo