Empty Bowls event in November at Mesa Community College

Mesa Community College invites the community to its annual Empty Bowls events in November where for a $10 donation patrons receive a one-of-a-kind handcrafted ceramic bowl along with a meal of soup and bread.

There will also be a silent auction featuring ceramics by some of the Valley’s most talented artists. All proceeds benefit the Paz de Cristo Community Center, according to a release.

The events are:

• 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 5, at the Saguaro Building at MCC’s Red Mountain Campus, 7110 E. McKellips Road .
• 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 12 at the Kirk Student Center’s Navajo Room at MCC’s Southern and Dobson Campus, 1833 W. Southern Ave.

During the events, the Mesa Market, MCC’s on-campus food pantry, is also collecting donations of nonperishable food and hygiene items for MCC students in need.

“Attending the Empty Bowls event is a great way to give to those in need. Each bowl is a unique keepsake that when purchased fights hunger right here in our community” Laura Elder, MCC ceramics senior lab technician, said in the release. “All proceeds benefit Paz De Cristo Community Center, a nonprofit providing anti-hunger and empowerment support for the East Valley’s homeless, unemployed, working poor and their families.”

This year’s sponsors include Laguna Clay, Mesa Arts Center, MCC Art Department, Pita Jungle, Red White & Brew, Friendship Village Tempe, Dobson High School and Desert Ridge High School. Additional thanks to the volunteers from New Frontiers for Lifelong Learning.

“I get excited every fall to team up with MCC for the Empty Bowls event. It is so fun to see everyone shop for the bowls they are looking for, but in reality, the bowl always chooses them. I encourage anyone who has not experienced Empty Bowls to come check it out and bring a friend. You’ll leave with a belly full of soup and a beautiful bowl, all while making a positive impact for our community,” John Farley, Paz De Cristo’s director of food services, said in the release.

For information on Paz de Cristo, go to pazdecristo.org.