Feature: Burnaby Empty Bowls Gala

The Empty Bowls Project was launched in 1999 by the Burnaby Food First Committee to raise awareness about the existence of hunger and poverty in Burnaby. As a sub-committee of Burnaby Food First, the Project committee consists of community members and representatives from Burnaby School District, City of Burnaby, the Ministry of Children and Family Development, Pear Tree Restaurant, Scotiabank, and South Burnaby Neighbourhood House.

Every two years, the Empty Bowls Project hosts a fundraising gala, with support from local artists, teachers, community organizations, restaurants, businesses, and individuals. Funds raised from the gala go to support local programs for children, youth, and families in Burnaby that provide nutritious food and help to build skills that encourage healthy lifestyles. These include cooking programs, breakfast and homework clubs, an organic produce program for low-income pregnant women, and weekly cooking and daily snack programs.

Want to help out?

Burnaby Empty Bowls Gala Fundraiser

Location: Hilton Metrotown (6083 McKay Avenue / Burnaby - map)
Time: April 18, 2013 from 5:30 pm to 9:30 pm
Cost: $65

In 2011, the Gala raised over $32,000 for the Empty Bowls Committee. The goal this year is to surpass that amount. The reception-style gala will include food prepared by local chefs, jazz music, and a silent auction, and each guest will also go home with a handcrafted ceramic bowl made by Lower Mainland potters.

For tickets, visit the Shadbolt Centre for the Arts website: https://tickets.shadboltcentre.com/

To find out more about Burnaby Empty Bowls, check out their website here.