CORNWALL, Ontario – The first Chili Fundraiser was held on Saturday, April 14 from 4-7 p.m. at St. Matthew’s Lutheran Church in Cornwall. The event involved a chili competition, followed by a shared meal by organizers, chefs, and attendees alike.
Organized and coordinated by Hellen McCallum, all funds from tickets sold for the event will go to Hospice Cornwall. McCallum says organization of the event began in January. Plans arose when fellow coordinator, Iris Swerdfeger, combined the idea of a fundraiser for Hospice with a chili competition already scheduled by Rita Witt of the same parish. McCallum also claims that, along with raising funds for Hospice, many volunteers are both fellow parishioners and members of the Swinging B’s square-dance club. She hopes that the event offers a welcoming atmosphere for those without a home parish who may be considering joining the church, as well as to spark an interest in square-dancing and joining the square-dancing community.
The contest involved 27 chilis by a variety of chefs, including vegetarian, mild, medium, spicy, as well as chili by local professional chefs – all of which were judged by 12 judges.
The organizers and volunteers are delighted with the outcome, particularly during the stormy weather, and hope to hold another chili dinner next year and make it a tradition. They are happy to offer a place for the community to gather over good food, and the opportunity to supply funds to a good cause in the process.
