For the past two years my sister-on-law has given me a really great birthday present.  My birthday is in November and each year she has gone to the Artisan’s Christmas Show at the Simcoe County Museum.

She gives me a container of frozen soup and a hand made clay bowl.  I know it sounds simple, and perhaps not something you would give someone on their birthday, but it’s the meaning BEHIND the gift that means a lot to me.  The bowls are created by local artisans and the soup is made by local caterers. They are paired for a unique and tasty gift with proceeds going to Christmas Cheer.

Recently I came across an advertisement for Bowls for Beds, which is a similar project that is taking place this coming Sunday with proceeds going to Samaritan House.

Working with Creative Café pottery studio and a number of local restaurants, a supply of clay bowls decorated by local children are created.  People in the community buy a ticket for just $25 and are then able to select one of the bowls and sample the soups available created by local chefs.

Samaritan House is a not-for-profit community agency that provides transitional housing, programs and services for some of the city’s most vulnerable people.

This year’s event is taking place on Sunday, April 27th from 12:00 noon until 3:00 at Central United Church at 54 Ross St.

If you go, please take a picture of your bowl and your soup and share it with us on Facebook or Twitter or even Instagram!  I can’t wait to share mine!