Help end hunger at Food Now’s 12th annual chili cook-off, April 6
Prepare your palate for a flavorful adventure as Food Now presents its 12th annual chili cook-off April 6 from noon to 3 p.m. Themed “A Picnic at the Bird Garden,” the event will take place at Lindi Biggi’s unbelievable BG Bird Garden in Palm Desert and will include plenty of food, drinks and fun activities for all ages.
World-class chefs — including members of several local Rotary groups and country clubs — will showcase their individual and distinctive chili recipes, and attendees’ votes will determine the champion.
But the excitement doesn’t end with chili. Wander through the BG Bird Garden’s stunning estate, visit exotic birds, flamingos and koi ponds, all while enjoying a variety of delicious chili and other refreshments.
“Lindi Biggi is a great supporter of Food Now,” said Tom Tragesser, Food Now’s director of operations. “We’ve had events at the Bird Garden before, and it was very generous that she opened up her house to us again.”
The event will also include complimentary food, beer, wine, mimosas and non-alcoholic drinks as well as musical entertainment, crafts and a photo booth.
“Since this is a family event, we’ve added some face painting and crafts and balloon animals for the kids,” Tragesser said.
As Dana C. Johnson, Food Now’s executive director and president, said via press release: “This exclusive gathering is not just a celebration of culinary excellence but also a heartfelt effort to end hunger in the Coachella Valley.”
Founded in 1959, Food Now is a community food pantry located in Desert Hot Springs. Since 1989, the nonprofit has been serving the needs of the residents of Desert Hot Springs, Cathedral City, Palm Springs and surrounding areas. Its mission is to improve the quality of life for residents in the western valley by providing food assistance, community outreach and support services that strengthen families and build healthy communities.
This event is presented by Sentinel Energy Center.
Tickets are $45 per person. Children under 12 are free. All proceeds will benefit Food Now. Tickets are available online at foodnowdhs.org/events and will also be sold in person at the door.
To learn more about Food Now or to make a donation, visit foodnowdhs.org.
As philanthropy editor at The Desert Sun, Winston Gieseke writes about nonprofits, fundraising and locals who give back, like his beloved dog Ernie Banks, who volunteers at the local cancer center. Reach him at winston.gieseke@desertsun.com.
Consider volunteering for Food Now
The organization is looking for volunteers 18+ to help package and distribute to local families. Hours are MondayThursday 7:30-11:30 a.m. Visit thefamilyservicesofthedesert.org/volunteer for more information.