A chili reception cooked up some valuable funds for the Chemainus Harvest House Food Bank.
Paul McGregor, manager at the 49th Parallel Grocery store in Chemainus, organized the annual Great Chemainus Chili Contest that warmed the hearts and bellies of participants. The 49th supplied all the bowls, napkins and spoons while the money went through the Island Savings Full Cupboard campaign.
The Full Cupboard program has an ongoing partnership with local food banks.
Total proceeds amounted to $2,275.
“This is the first fundraiser we have been able to do because of COVID,” noted Harvest House chair Dorothy Sandford.
Chemainus Village Square businesses helped spread the word about the available chili choices.
Vendors supplied their own ingredients for the chili contest. Sawmill Taphouse & Grill, the 49th and Riot Brewing provided prizes for the winners.
North Cowichan Mayor Al Siebring and Chemainus & District Chamber of Commerce members helped out at the chili stations.
“Special thanks to all the volunteers that helped make it a success,” added Sandford.