By Vanessa Wolf

Courtesy photo.

This Saturday, April 12, Star Noodle in Lahaina and the Maui Organization for the Ceramic Arts are presenting the third annual Empty Bowl Project.

So what is this empty bowl business?, you ask.

Maui-based ceramic artists and schools have come together to create hand-crafted ceramic bowls which are then sold for $25 each at the event. Collected proceeds will benefit the Maui Food Bank.

The keepsake ceramic bowls then entitle you to visit the Noodle Bar where you create your own personal Ramen or Organic Soba dish from a variety of garnishings to “soothe your soul.”

The event takes place at Star Noodle, with live entertainment throughout the evening.

Organizers note that scrips are available to purchase other Star Noodle favorites and signature Star cocktails, wines, beers and sakes.

In 2013, the second annual Empty Bowl Project had over 700 attendees and $5,000 was donated to the Maui Food Bank, $5,000 to Hale Mahaolu and another $2,000 to the Lahaina Luna Ladies Basketball team.

Empty Bowl Project is an international grassroots project to help fight hunger. Events have taken place across the United States and in at least a dozen other countries. Millions of dollars have been raised and donated to hunger-fighting organizations.

The event is from 5:30 to 8 p.m. and bowls historically sell out quickly (as in within the first hour), so you may want to get there early if you’re hoping to score one.

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Star Noodle is located at 86 Kupuohi St. in Lahaina.