Empty Bowl dinners have happened in thousands of communities around the world. They are creative ways to raise money and consciousness to help address hunger. Groups create handmade bowls that are sold in a festive dinner. The bowls are filled with soup and accompanied by bread and fruit to create a simple meal. The funds raised are donated to hunger/poverty groups.

All kinds of people help to make these events happen: potters, students, musicians, and local businesses (that donate the food). CCSU students have organized two very successful dinners in years past, with involvement by the School of Business, the Art and Design Department and the Community Engagement Office and collaboration with local schools, businesses, and others.