Carpenter’s Shelter, Alexandria’s largest homeless shelter celebrated it’s 12th Annual Cook Off at The Birchmere Music Hall. Carpenter’s Cook Off is cuisine for a cause honoring those who are involved to help end homelessness and benefit the area’s children. Some of the area’s most dedicated and caring restaurants and chefs came to show their support this tasty competition.
About 400 people attended Carpenter’s Cook Off this year, while 27 restaurants provided their top dishes including: Brabo, The Majestic, Nando’s Peri-Peri, and Alexandria Cupcake to name a few.
Spirits were high and everyone enjoyed the food and fun while helping out a great cause.
More than $20,000 was raised in the live and online auctions that were held. And $8,300 was donated in the Raise Your Paddle Appeal.
The Judges deliberating over the delicacies .
Taneka shared her strength and hope through her story on how Carpenter’s Shelter helped her and her family in their time of need.
Best Savory Dish was awarded to Union Street Public House (left). Brabo (right) took home the award for Best Sweet Dish. And The Majestic (middle) held onto People’s Choice Award for the 4th year in a row.
Carpenter’s Shelter is fully committed to breaking the cycle and ending homelessness. 90% of their aftercare clients do not return to homelessness through the guidance, programs, and services that are provided. Carpenter’s Shelter’s mission is “to support the homeless achieve sustainable independence through shelter, guidance, education, and advocacy”. To learn more about Carpenter’s Shelter or to find out ways you can volunteer please visit their website at Carpenter’s Shelter. To get information about a local shelter in your area check out the Homeless Shelter Directory.