Empty Bowls Naples

Neighbors Helping Neighbors

For 20 years, Empty Bowls Naples (EBN), a 501(c)(3), has gifted many food pantries in the Lee and Collier communities with generous grants; so far, totals are over one million dollars! The story of how this has been accomplished reads like a fairy tale.

Due to generous potters who make thousands of bowls, EBN takes them out to area groups to be painted. Civic groups, churches, colleges, life care/nursing homes, corporations, hotel conventions, condo associations, etc., are actively involved in painting and finishing these beautiful creations for sale. Funds become part of the EBN Grant Program and are distributed in June.

Spearheaded by Betsy Dawson, a small but mighty group of committed volunteers has embraced the mission to end hunger “One Bowl at a Time.”

In addition, hundreds of residents have joined this effort by artists donating pieces, sponsoring, becoming Friends of EBN, creating pottery pieces, and, of course, painting over 5,000 bowls! “Neighbors helping neighbors” is truly the guiding force behind the heartwarming support shown by this community.

The annual EBN event has become a very special place for area residents to come and gather, choose a bowl, sample soups, engage in a silent auction and boutique, and view potters at their creative best…just to name a few activities. The outpouring of love felt is palpable, especially since attendees know that their ticket price has a direct effect on many lives in their community.

The annual event takes place in Naples Cambier Park this coming January 17. Admission is $30, which entitles the entrant to unlimited helpings of over 50 soups in a pottery bowl of their choosing from local clubs and restaurants and Panera Bread. There is music, pottery demonstrations, a high school drum line, and a silent auction. Over $225,000 was raised last year by not-for-profit Empty Bowls Naples. Empty Bowls is always looking for artists and volunteers. If you would like to learn more, please contact us at friendsofemptybowls@gmail.com or on Facebook @emptybowlsnaples.