Help combat hunger by donating to Oakton's Empty Bowls initiative

While Empty Bowls at Oakton, a long-running fundraiser that raises awareness about local and worldwide hunger, will not take place as an in-person event this year, you can still donate and support local families struggling to put food on their tables.

All donations are welcome, and 100% of the proceeds go to local food charities. Donate online now through Jan. 31. Donations can also be dropped off in-person to either campus at the Office of Student Life and Campus Inclusion, Room 1530, 1600 E. Golf Road, Des Plaines, or Room A130, 7701 N. Lincoln Ave., Skokie.

Sponsored by the Ceramics Club at Oakton and supported by the college's Student Government Association, Empty Bowls at Oakton is part of a nonprofit, global movement that has raised millions of dollars for food banks, soup kitchens and other meal programs.

In its 18th year, Empty Bowls at Oakton has raised more than $391,500 for area food charities. Since 2004, this event has sold approximately 17,500 handmade bowls to benefit local food pantries. Due to the pandemic, the Ceramics Club could not make any artwork available for this year's event.

"Your donation will bring joy and happiness to someone in these uncertain times," said Louis Pierozzi, chair of Oakton's Art and Design Department.

"The Ceramics Club is hoping this will be our best year ever, with our goal to raise over $50,000. Now is the most important time of year to give. Every cent will go directly to local food pantries and pay for meals for those most in need."

For information, email emptybowls@oakton.edu or call (847) 635-1699.