By Lindsay Doty
Pittsboro Police Lt. Christi Patterson presents a trophy to last year’s cook-off winner Steve Wagner from Hendricks Regional Health who made his mother’s delicious chili recipe. The traveling trophy will be passed to new winner on Nov. 3. Organizers hope the event will raise $10,000 for Hendricks County food pantries.
Photo by Faith Toole
When Shirley Larsen decided to start volunteering at Shared Blessings Food Pantry in Danville eight years ago, the reasons were personal.
“My dad was only 7 when lost his father and there were 8 children left for his grandmother to care for and feed. This was back before social agencies were there and they grew up with a lot of hunger,” said Shirley Larsen.
“I can’t change what happened to them but I can help others,” she said.
Today, Larsen serves as board treasurer of the Hendricks County Food Pantry Coalition, a group (formed in 2006) that works to help Hendricks County food pantries meet nutritional needs. They have 23 food pantries spread out across the county, along with three pet food pantries, and a hygiene pantry that distributes toiletry items.
Last year, the event raised $8500 and this year organizers hope to hit $10,000 with all proceeds going back the food pantries.
“We can’t do our work of helping our neighbors without the help of our neighbors. The community’s support means we can keep our shelves stocked.”
There is no admission to the cook-off. To try any soups or cupcakes is a $1 a ticket or receive a ticket for each canned good you bring in. The event will include a silent auction with big-ticket items like a weekend stay at French Lick Resort and a two-seater car fast trip around Motor Speedway. The Colts game will be available for viewing, so don’t panic.
What: 8th annual Everyday Souperheroes Cook-Off
Hendricks Regional Health is a sponsor.
Where: Hendricks County Fairgrounds
North/South Hall (Auditorium)
1900 E Main St, Danville
When: 1- 4 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 3
Cost: Free admission Soup tickets are $1 or donate a canned good.
For more information contact Christi Patterson at cpatterson@pittsboropolice.org