St. Vincent de Paul of Baltimore is excited to present its 20th annual Empty Bowls fundraiser this April, dedicated to supporting Baltimore residents dealing with hunger, homelessness, and poverty.
The festivities kick off on Friday, April 17, with Candlelight & Clay. This enchanting evening reception features an open bar, live music, dancing, and a range of entertainment options. Guests will have the opportunity to participate in a silent auction, savor delectable dishes from local eateries, and take home beautifully crafted souvenir bowls. The following day, Saturday, April 18, the organization will host the Annual Family Event, offering a variety of delicious soups and food from local restaurants, along with auction items, entertainment, and fun activities for everyone in the family.
Both events will take place at the Exhibition Hall of the Maryland State Fairgrounds. Attendees will have the chance to explore thousands of handmade souvenir bowls, choosing one to keep as a token of their commitment to support Baltimore’s hungry and struggling community members.
“Empty Bowls is a truly significant event for our community,” shared Mary Helfrich, Chief Advancement Officer of St. Vincent de Paul of Baltimore. “For two decades, it has served as a platform for individuals to come together, enjoy a meal, and make a genuine impact on the lives of those facing hunger, homelessness, and poverty. We are deeply thankful for the amazing support from our neighbors and partners, which helps bring this event to life and enables us to continue our mission.”
While a recent survey by Johns Hopkins University indicated a 7.5% decline in food insecurity in Baltimore City, it still revealed that 28% of residents are grappling with hunger and facing challenges accessing grocery stores. The disparity is particularly pronounced among racial groups, as 37% of Black residents reported food insecurity compared to just 17% of white residents. To address this issue, the Baltimore City Health Department has implemented programs like Baltimarket and the Virtual Supermarket Program, yet organizations like SVDP continue to see a significant need for their assistance.
St. Vincent de Paul operates as a nonprofit organization focused on empowering individuals facing poverty by providing them with the necessary skills, resources, and opportunities to achieve their full potential. In 2025, the Empty Bowls event raised an impressive $154,000, drawing over 700 attendees.
Tickets for both Empty Bowls events are currently available. For those interested in Saturday’s Annual Family Event, early bird pricing is offered, and children aged 9 and under can attend for free.
