What began as a modest fundraising idea in 2022 has blossomed into an annual effort netting over $2,000 total, thanks to the hard work and dedication of Emerson J. Dillon Middle School art teachers and students.

The “Empty Bowls for Erin’s Angels” fundraiser has seen tremendous success since its inception. Under the guidance of EJD art teachers Beth Pritchard and Brandi Finniss, students have created made handcrafted pottery bowls that are raffled off at the district-wide art show. The idea stems from an international grassroots art movement by artists who make it their mission to raise money for food-related charities by crafting ceramic bowls.

“This program has really grown throughout the years,” said Pritchard. “The students have done a fantastic job, and we are so grateful to everyone who has made this fundraiser a success.”

The empty bowls will be on display and raffled off at the districtwide art show 3:30-7 p.m. May 16 at John C. Birdlebough High School. All proceeds from the sales and raffles will go toward Erin’s Angels, a local nonprofit that helps provide food for local families in need. In the past three years, the fundraiser has netted more than $2,200 for the charity.