A north county tradition that has a partner in Jamestown will again benefit those facing food insecurities. This Saturday, the annual Empty Bowls fundraiser will be from 11 a.m. until 2 p.m., at Fredonia’s Wheelock School gymnasium. Approximately 1,200 custom bowls will be available for purchase at Wheelock, with proceeds to be donated to combat food insecurity in the community through local food pantries.

The event is organized by Ron Nasca, the owner of Mudslingers Ceramics Gallery in Fredonia. A handful of professional potters, including the Chautauqua County Society of Artists, will be making handmade bowls to be featured at the event. Local art students from the Fredonia and Brocton school districts have created custom pieces for sale, as well. The clay is provided to the students at no cost to the schools.

At this year’s Empty Bowls event, for the first time, small plates will also be available for purchase. “It was a suggestion, and we thought, sure, why not,” Nasca said.

This year’s Jamestown event will take place at St. Luke’s on Dec. 6, at Fourth Street and Main Street in Jamestown, from 11 a.m. until 2 p.m.

Through the years, more than $415,000 has been raised through the events. Knowing the need, that is heartwarming.