Local restaurants donated 89 gallons of soup while 500 bowls were donated by local artists and students. 
“I just like making things. I don’t care what it is. And I do a lot of different things. I mean, to me, sometimes it’s been work, but usually not.” says Grace Pass on why she likes making pottery. 
Several local restaurants, including CRAVE, Tavern 4 & 5, Peoples Organic, and Kona Grill, donated soup for the event. 
Allie McIntosh, a singer-songwriter, pianist, and violinist, performed at the PROP Empty Bowls event on Feb. 21, showcasing original songs such as her latest release, “My Very Own.” 
Guests took part in a silent auction with a total donor-estimated value exceeding $6,000, as well as a wine pull that included non-alcoholic options. 
According to PROP Executive Director Jenifer Loon, paper goods are high in demand right now. “St. Andrew has been doing a paper drive to coincide with ending in time for [Empty Bowls],” Loon said. 
The PROP Food Shelf’s 11th annual “Empty Bowls” event was back in person on Tuesday, Feb. 21, at St. Andrew Lutheran Church in Eden Prairie.
With a free-will donation, guests enjoyed soups from local restaurants, a silent auction, a wine pull, live music, and in the end, were able to take home a ceramic or glass bowl created and donated by local artists and students.
“It’s just been an amazing outpouring of support from the community for this event,” said PROP Executive Director Jenifer Loon.
All the proceeds go toward buying food for the PROP Food Shelf and providing financial assistance for emergency housing support, youth scholarships, and emergency car repairs.
Grace Pass and her pottery wheel welcomed guests and demonstrated how to make a bowl. She even donated some of her pottery to the event. Pass has been making pottery for over 50 years.
“If it wasn’t for potters to donate things, there wouldn’t be empty bowls. So, support your local potter and support your local food shelf,” said Pass.
Despite a winter storm that began during the dinner portion of the event, Loon believes that this year’s Empty Bowls was the best one yet.
“Much of the support is through sponsors, corporate sponsorships, and that which we seek ahead of time,” says Loon, “So from that standpoint, it would probably be our best Empty Bowls ever.”
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