This event is presented to raise funds and to raise awareness of the years of service provided at Mathewson Street Church/134 Collaborative along with the PICA mealsite and the other services offered to the homeless and food insecure. The donation includes a handmade bowl, created by students in the Rhode Island College Art Department, for use at the meal.

The interactive performance created by Frank V. Toti, Jr. and Steven Pennell is the culmination of a series of workshops and oral history interviews with people who are homeless in our community and those who work with the homeless.  These individuals share their stories, their hopes and dreams, and the realities of being homeless and food insecure. Their stories – in their own words – come from members of our community.  It is powerful when the actual experiences of people who are struggling with an issue come to life – it puts a name and a face on the issue. The issue becomes personal.  This project was created in partnership with the ARTREACH Program at Mathewson Street Church/134 Collaborative with guests of the PICA Community Meal site. The performance is produced and funded by URI Providence Campus Arts and Culture Program.

The Empty Bowl Supper includes a drink, soup, bread and dessert in the hall where the meal site serves the public every week – making this experience all the more real and tangible. The Empty Bowl Supper has a suggested donation of $25 ($35 with Parking in the lot next door) – and the handcrafted bowl is yours to keep – a lasting memory of the experience. The bowls have been crafted by Craig Bachman and RIC Ceramics students.  There will be a Silent Auction and larger donations will be accepted to support the Meal site, services, activities and the maintenance of the facility to allow for these services.