Creativity harnessed to address hunger

Empty Bowls by the Lake will have its sixth annual fundraiser at the American Legion Post 211.

Empty Bowls by the Lake will have its sixth annual fundraiser from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Oct. 14 at the American Legion Post 211, 31972 Walker Road in Avon Lake.

Coordinator Laura Kirchner said that with in a collaboration with 25 local restaurants, high school students and artists, the event will have close to 1,000 people contributing to the initiative with close to 600 unique bowls.

Empty Bowls by the Lake started in 2012 as part of an international movement to raise money and awareness to end hunger and create positive and lasting change through the arts, education and projects that build community.

The unique custom works of art are coming from as far away as Put-in Bay, which is contributing 130 bowls, in addition to contributions from 40 art students from North Ridgeville’s Lake Ridge Academy.

“It is a really cool way to fight hunger because it involves so many people; it’s about so much more than just raising money,” Kirchner said. “It’s a community project. Hundreds of students are making bowls and learning about the needs of others right in their own communities.”

Local restaurants are donating and making anywhere from three to 10 gallons of soup and the organizing committee has been overwhelmed by the positive response by their willingness to take part, she said.

“I have yet to walk into a restaurant and have someone say no to me,” Kirchner said. “And the best part is that I have met so many generous and giving people.

“They thank me for giving them the opportunity to be a part of it.”

All proceeds will benefit Second Harvest Food Bank of North Central Ohio and other local food banks.

Last year’s fundraiser raised more than $13,000 for local organizations who assist those in need.

Live entertainment will be provided by Avon Electric Orchestra and Avon Lake singer Brittany Davidson. The event is sponsored by Mazzella Companies, W.A Smith Financial Group, Avon Lake United Church of Christ and Lowe’s.

A $20 donation includes a pottery bowl and unlimited soup and bread. Children ages 6 through 12 who accompany a $20 donor may participate in the event for $5. Admission for children ages 5 and younger is free.

Anyone interested in more information can visit www. emptybowlsbythelake.org or can contact Kirchner at lakirchner@yahoo.com.