Laurier moves annual Empty Bowls fundraiser online

April 24, 2020
For Immediate Release

Waterloo – Wilfrid Laurier University will continue its tradition of hosting the popular annual Empty Bowls fundraiser in support of the Food Bank of Waterloo Region, but things will be different this year. The 11th annual fundraiser, spearheaded by Laurier’s Robert Langen Art Gallery and the Waterloo Potters’ Workshop, will be a virtual gathering designed to raise funds and awareness about hunger in the community.

The virtual event will take place on May 19 from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. on the online platform Zoom. Those participating will be treated to a performance by Kitchener-Waterloo musician Ashley Giles, take part in sharing soup recipes and hear remarks by dignitaries including Wendi Campbell, CEO of The Food Bank of Waterloo Region and Deborah MacLatchy, Laurier President and Vice-Chancellor.

Registration is free, but participants are encouraged to donate. All proceeds raised as part of the online event will go directly to the Food Bank of Waterloo Region. The first 125 registrants are eligible to receive a bowl created by members of the Waterloo Potters’ Workshop.

Moving Empty Bowls to an online event provides the opportunity to offer continued support to the Food Bank of Waterloo Region, which is facing challenges due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

“We want to continue to help people in our community and help the food bank during this period,” said Suzanne Luke, curator of the Robert Langen Art Gallery. “With food bank coffers strained right now, people are in need and this is one way we can give back to our community.”

Since 2011, Empty Bowls fundraisers at the Robert Langen Art Gallery have raised more than $42,000 for the Food Bank of Waterloo Region. Visit the website for full virtual event details and registration.