Food bank sells soup with artistic bowls for fundraiser

The North Valley Food Bank is holding an Empty Bowls fundraiser event on Friday, Dec. 10.

Folks are asked to purchase a bowl of soup served in one-of-a-kind bowls created by ceramic potters at the KALICO Arts Center. The event, which is a fundraiser for the food bank, includes live music and runs from 3 to 5 p.m. at the food bank at 251 Flathead Avenue.

Participants donate $25 to purchase a bowl, which comes with homemade soup and bread. Free bowls of soup will also be available.

The food bank will be serving a hearty chili made with meat and beans, as well as a vegan squash soup, prepared in its new community kitchen. While NVFB still seeks funding for food processing equipment in the third and final phase of its capital campaign, they are thrilled to be able to utilize the commercial kitchen for the first time.

Empty Bowls is an international effort to fight hunger. Artists donate time and materials to create unique, ceramic bowls. The food bank has partnered with KALICO Arts Center in Kalispell for the event.

KALICO Clay Studio Manager, Michelle Wang, explains that there is a natural connection between pottery and food.

“While each individual piece of pottery reflects the uniqueness of the maker, I have found a common thread between potters: food,” Wang said. “All potters love to eat. Eating and serving from a handmade bowl elevates the everyday necessity of nourishment.”

Everyone is welcome regardless of ability to pay.

For questions, contact Elizabeth Temple at elizabeth@northvalleyfoodbank.org or call 406-862-5863 or visit northvalleyfoodbank.org.