The Donnellson community rallied to collect donations for hurricane relief at a Chili Cook-Off and Dessert Auction hosted by Zion Mennonite Church last weekend. Seven area businesses and organizations supported the effort, and over 125 people gathered in the yard and street surrounding the church to taste the chili, vote for their favorite, and participate in the dessert auction. By the end of the evening, over $3,200 had been raised to assist hurricane victims.
Congratulations to the Lee County Fair Board for winning first place with Bingo! Chili. Tasters also enjoyed Healthy Pearl Valley Chili donated by the Donnellson Health Center, Emergency Chili provided by the Lee County Ambulance Service, White Chicken Chili provided by Philp Insurance, Light Turkey Chili provided by Zion Mennonite Church, and Hurricane Chili provided by the Vision Committee of the church.
Duane Richard and Lynn Richard of Steffes Group auctioned off thirty desserts in thirty minutes, including a dessert basket donated by Harvestville Farm and cakes, cookies, pies, and other desserts donated by church members. The skilled auctioneers drew out the generous bidders, and the two highest selling desserts combined brought in $450!
The funds raised will be used by Mennonite Disaster Service in programs designed to assist victims of the three recent hurricanes. The Zion Mennonite Vision Committee thanks everyone who attended and all area businesses and organizations who graciously and generously supported this event.