Michael Bakx

Staff Writer

On Friday, April 24th, from 6-8 pm Joseph A. Foran High school’s Interact Club held a fundraiser that they have done every year since 2010, in support of the needy at the Beth-El shelter here in Milford, CT. This program, run by one of Foran’s art teachers, Mrs. Plude, is called Empty Bowls, which creates an experience for patrons to see what it’s like to be in a soup kitchen. The Interact Club charged $8 for entry fee and 100% of the proceeds goes directly to the Beth-El Shelter. The patrons who attended the benefit, received a clay bowl of their choice made by art students in ceramics class here at Foran; and they also were fed various soups including: chicken noodle, chicken & rice, clam chowder, and vegan corn chowder. Iced tea and cold water were also provided. Lisa Morales, one of the school’s cafeteria ladies cooked, while three students served the bowls of soup to the tables in shifts. In addition to the complimentary food, drinks, and bowls that the benefactors received upon entry, they were also given the wonderful opportunity to listen to one of Foran’s very talented musicians, Ethan Kanlong, who played guitar and vocals for the duration of the night. Mrs. Plude started the Empty Bowls project because she used to volunteer in a similar program during her time she spent in art school. Mrs. Plude said, “Our mission is to raise as much awareness about our city’s needy, and to have students create art for a good cause.” The interact club now has a total of 21 active members and is always welcoming more that want to help.  Chris Powers, a freshman student at Foran, and a member of the Interact Club, who volunteered Friday night said, “I joined Interact Club because I like to help people. If I could even make the slightest positive change in someone’s life then I know I’m doing something right.”