Do Crew helps Empty Bowls fill empty stomachs

For the past 10 years, Empty Bowls has made it its mission to raise funds and public awareness about hunger and food security in Montreal.

Empty Bowls is an international fundraising project made possible by hundreds of local potters who create handmade bowls that are donated to the cause. People who attend the event buy a bowl, which is filled with a delicious homemade soup, and then take the bowl with them when they leave.

• CBC Montreal Do Crew: Charity Application
• Empty Bowls at the NDG Food Depot

The event has mainly taken place at two venues:the Unitarian Church of Montreal and Congregation Dorshei Emet in Hampstead, and last year, there was also an event at Saint Columba By The Lake Presbyterian Church in Pointe-Claire.

Funds raised were pooled and distributed evenly between local organizations that fight hunger in Montreal.To celebrate its 10th anniversary, the event has expanded to more venues, including the NDG Food Depot.

Volunteering on the organizing committee for Empty Bowls is very personal for Caroline Jondahl.

Caroline is herself a Do Crew volunteer and has been with Empty Bowls for almost 10 years.

"I came from a family with 10 children, and it was a struggle to have enough food we barely survived on my Father's Veteran's Pension. The stress was terrible and everyone suffered."

She is now determined to make a difference in any way she can.

As with any fundraiser, volunteers are essential to help the event run smoothly. The CBC Montreal Do Crew will be prepping the bowls and helping with service.

If you are interested in volunteering with the Do Crew, here is what you need to know:

• WHAT: Prepping bowls and helping with service
• WHEN: Saturday, April 9 from10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.
• WHERE: NDG Food Depot (2146 MarloweAve.)
• WHO: 15 volunteers

If you want to join this month's Do Crew or you want to know more you can reach Jennifer Allen by email at jennifer.allen@cbc.ca.