Empty bowls 2026

Nearly 1 in 8 Cambridge residents report being food insecure. Among those facing homelessness, that rate is much higher. Organizations like On The Rise help ensure that those experiencing homelessness in our communities have the resources they need–including hot, high quality food–to survive.

You can combat hunger and homelessness in our community by participating in Empty Bowls, which is a great way to learn about these issues, while enjoying hot soup prepared by local restaurants and pottery crafted by local artisans. All proceeds directly benefit On The Rise and their Safe Haven and Keep The Keys programs, which support those actively experiencing homelessness and those recovering from homelessness respectively.

join us for the 13th year

Save the Date: Saturday, March 28, 2026. Tickets will go on sale in February.

Empty Bowls has a simple yet meaningful tradition: local ceramic artists generously donate handcrafted bowls, while local restaurants provide delicious soup. Guests purchase a ticket, select their favorite bowl, and enjoy a variety of soups—all proceeds benefiting our programs for unhoused women and gender diverse people.

Are you a member of a local ceramics studio or club or have your own small business? Please consider partnering with us by donating bowls.

Sponsorship Opportunities

EVENT DETAILS

When: Saturday, March 28th (Timed seating options will be available at ticket purchase).
Tickets go on sale in February!

Where: First Street Market, 59 First St Cambridge, MA

If you cannot attend the event, please consider making a donation! If you want to learn more about our work and tour our home, please reach out to our team at development@ontherise.org

past event photos

THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS and partners!

- sponsors & Partners-

Presenting Sponsors: 1369 Coffeehouse and first street market

Leading Sponsor

Clyde Media

Gather Here

Supporting SPOnsors

Leggat McCall

Prellwitz Chilinski Associates

The Bostrom Family

East Cambridge Savings Bank

Naveo Credit Union

Supporting Pottery Studios

Feet of Clay

Indigo Fire

Harvard Ceramics Studio

Mudflat Studios

Clay Lounge Studios

Supporting Restaurants:

if you are interested in participating as a restaurant partner, please contact Meghan.Chu@ontherise.org