Grand Valley Catholic Outreach in Grand Junction, Colorado, held its 30th annual Empty Bowls fundraiser on October 11, 2025, drawing hundreds to support the local fight against hunger. The event featured handcrafted bowls, hot soup, and community spirit, all aimed at funding the organization’s soup kitchen that serves meals six days a week to those in need.
Event Details and Highlights
The fundraiser took place from 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at 245 South 1st Street in Grand Junction. Guests purchased tickets for $25, which included a unique ceramic bowl made by local artists, a serving of soup, dessert, and a beverage. Organizers hoped to welcome around 1,000 visitors, building on the event’s growing popularity over the years.
This gathering not only provided a simple meal but also symbolized the broader issue of food insecurity in the area. Empty bowls represented the daily struggles of homeless individuals and low-income families who rely on the soup kitchen for their main meal. By filling these bowls, attendees directly contributed to keeping the kitchen running.
The menu highlighted local flavors with various soups donated by community members and businesses. Desserts ranged from fresh baked goods to fruit options, ensuring something for everyone. Beverages included coffee, tea, and water to keep the event comfortable even on a cool fall day.
| Event Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Ticket Price | $25 per person |
| Time Slot | 11:00 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. |
| Location | 245 South 1st Street, Grand Junction, CO |
| Inclusions | Handcrafted bowl, soup, dessert, beverage |
| Expected Attendees | Approximately 1,000 |
The Symbolism and Community Role
Jane Schissel, the executive director at Grand Valley Catholic Outreach, emphasized the event’s deeper meaning during the gathering. She noted that many people visit the soup kitchen daily, often for their only hot meal, highlighting the ongoing need in Grand Junction. The empty bowl serves as a reminder of that reality, while participants’ support helps fill it for others.
This community response shows Grand Junction’s strong sense of care. Residents recognize the challenges faced by homeless individuals and working poor families. The event fosters connections, with families, volunteers, and local leaders coming together to make a tangible difference. In a year marked by rising living costs, such initiatives provide both immediate aid and long-term hope.
Recent expansions at the outreach, like the opening of Mother Teresa Place in 2025, add 40 new apartments for those transitioning from homelessness. This ties into the fundraiser’s goals, as funds help sustain housing and meal programs amid increasing demand.
History of the Empty Bowls Tradition
The Empty Bowls concept started in the 1990s in Michigan as a simple way to raise awareness about hunger. It spread nationwide, with potters donating bowls to symbolize scarcity. In Grand Junction, the late Ginger Rice brought the idea to the valley, launching the first event at the local art center.
Over three decades, the fundraiser has evolved significantly. Early years saw modest crowds, but attendance grew steadily, prompting a move to the larger kitchen at Catholic Outreach. Unlike some communities that discontinued similar events, Grand Junction’s version thrived due to unwavering local support. This year marked the 30th anniversary, a milestone that underscores its enduring impact.
The tradition aligns with national efforts like Hunger Awareness Month in September, but Grand Valley’s commitment extends year-round. Past events have raised thousands, directly funding thousands of meals served annually at the soup kitchen.
- Started in Michigan in the 1990s by artists and activists.
- Introduced to Grand Junction by Ginger Rice in the early 2000s.
- Moved from art center to outreach facility due to increased popularity.
- Celebrated 30 years in 2025 with record expectations.
Volunteer Efforts and Personal Stories
Volunteers play a crucial role in making the Empty Bowls event a success. Longtime participant Kate Denning shared her experiences, recalling the early days at the art center and the excitement of watching crowds expand. She has served for years, helping with setup, serving food, and cleanup, driven by a passion to help neighbors in need.
The soup kitchen operates Monday through Saturday from noon to 1 p.m., relying entirely on donations and volunteer hours. In 2025, with economic pressures like inflation affecting more families, volunteer numbers have risen to meet the demand. Stories from regulars highlight how these meals provide not just food but also dignity and community.
One volunteer mentioned preparing over 200 gallons of soup for the event, a labor of love that mirrors the kitchen’s daily operations. These efforts ensure that low-income families, seniors, veterans, and the unemployed receive free, nutritious meals without judgment.
Looking Ahead to Sustained Support
As the 30th Empty Bowls wraps up, organizers reflect on its role in addressing hunger in western Colorado. The event’s success could raise up to $25,000, enough to support months of soup kitchen operations. With homelessness rates up slightly in the region due to housing shortages, such fundraisers remain vital.
Grand Valley Catholic Outreach plans to continue expanding services, including more transitional housing and job training programs. Community members can get involved beyond events by donating goods or volunteering regularly. This year’s turnout reinforces the area’s resilience and willingness to tackle social issues head-on.
Readers, if this story inspires you, share it with friends and family to spread awareness about local hunger efforts. Drop a comment below with your thoughts on community fundraisers or how you’ve supported similar causes.
