In the Fall of 2005, Cortland Loaves and Fishes held the first Empty Bowls Dinner. Now the annual (and sole) fundraiser for Cortland Loaves and Fishes, the theme of the dinner is to raise awareness of hunger, both locally and worldwide. A simple soup and salad dinner is provided with soups donated by local restaurants and individuals. Participants pick out and keep a handmade bowl created by local artists, teachers and students. Pottery, all of which is donated by local artists, are given as door prizes and auctioned during the event.