by Susanne Ellis
Over twenty years ago Marc Lemieux, then president of the Kingston Potters’ Guild, formed a partnership with Martha’s Table. The goal was to support Kingston residents in need. A unique fund-raising event was created. Together with other community volunteers who cooked gallons of soup, the Guild potters took on the challenge of making dozens of hand-made soup bowls. The Wilton Pottery also contributed many bowls for years until closing.
Every October, the Empty Bowls event offers a special opportunity: patrons select their hand-made soup bowl which is then filled with homemade soup. After enjoying their meal, they go home with a beautiful souvenir and the knowledge that they have contributed to the funds to support Martha’s Table’s charitable work in feeding those in need.
Now the Guild is almost the only bowls supplier for this eagerly anticipated event each year. As potters, we’re proud to help by contributing what we enjoy creating to community outreach.
Thanks to Susanne Ellis for organizing and encouraging us all in this year’s bowl-making!
Visit www.marthastable.ca to support this event. TENTATIVELY SCHEDULED–last Sunday in October 2024. Save the date and watch for details!