The basement of Holy Trinity Church in NDG was abuzz with activity last Saturday.

The NDG Food Depot hosted its first Empty Bowls event: a project which aims to raise money and awareness in the fight to end hunger.

Quebec potters donated 600 ceramic soup bowls. People came in droves for the opportunity to purchase a delicious bowl of soup and take their handcrafted bowl home with them – all proceeds going to the NDG Food Depot.

The Do Crew arrived at 10 a.m., and we were put to work.

Stationed in different locations around the hall, our team assisted at the tables brimming with beautifully designed bowls.

We helped patrons wash their bowls before and after sitting down to enjoy their choice of a savoury Garlic White Bean or Curried Winter Vegetable soup.

Our volunteers acted as servers, kitchen porters and dishwashers – even helping to wrap up the bowls for their journey home.

Some were stationed at the information booth to welcome arrivals. The time flew by quickly, and it was difficult for us to leave. Some volunteers didn't – putting in overtime to offer extra support!

It was truly a community event, from the participants to the potters and cooks who donated their creations – even the scrumptious artisanal bread. Yum!

And of course – our great team of Do Crew volunteers.

Special thanks to: Aline Lemay, Cecily Van Horn, Mark Dodwell, Elizabeth Martin, Stephanie Stevenson, Kathleen MacDonald Lagacé, Nilmini Tenne, Joyce Dadouche, Lesley Jacobi, Joan Fee, Ronnie Kellner, Lana Gorgieff, Divina Bincay, Theresa Gibson and Donna Copeland, for going above and beyond!