The first-ever community chili cook-off is Wednesday, Feb. 22, from 5:30-7 p.m. in the Bluffton Middle School Cafetorium. 

Local “chefs” are preparing their favorite chili recipes for the community to judge. A $5 tasting fee includes a sample of each chili and a drink; other items for sale include hot dogs, shredded chicken sandwiches, chips and baked goods. 

All proceeds benefit Bluffton Community Assistance programs.  

The cook-off is planned by the mission committee of Bluffton Presbyterian Church with help from several other congregations. 

What started as a challenge to see which church makes the best chili, has become more of a cook-off within the Presbyterian Church. Of the eight current entries, six are coming from Bluffton Presbyterian Church members; Emmanuel United Church of Christ and Bluffton Baptist will also have entries.

Additional food items and support is coming from St. John’s United Church of Christ and First United Methodist.

The event is not just about chili, it is about building and supporting the community, according to Carole Enneking of the Presbyterian Church.

Free entertainment will be provided by Dancers Elite (5:30-6:05 p.m.) and Krystie’s Music Studio (6:15-7:00 p.m.).

Donations of canned and boxed food items, paper products, cleaning supplies and pet food are welcome. Those who donate will be entered into a gift basket drawing. Recognition of the “best chili in Bluffton” will be determined by people’s choice votes.

Bluffton Community Assistance Corporation (BCAC) is a local non-profit organization that provides supplemental food and assistance to qualifying individuals and families within the Bluffton School District. 

The program is the Bluffton Food Pantry housed at St. John’s United Church of Christ. In addition to the Food Pantry, the BCAC can provide emergency vouchers for rent and utilities. Director Jami Crawfis said she is very thankful for the community support both in donated items and money.  

No reservations are required to attend the chili cook-off; volunteers are still needed for that night, as well. 

Contact Lynda Best (419-296-2790) for more information or to volunteer.