Second Harvest of the Greater Valley will host its Annual Chili Cook-Off Fundraiser on April 12 at the Manteca Transit Center. More than just a mouthwatering evening of chili tasting, this event is a powerful opportunity to support essential food assistance programs in the region.

Attendees can look forward to an unforgettable night featuring prizes, exciting raffles, live music, and photo opportunities, all while savoring some of the finest chili creations in the area. The best part? Every bite you enjoy directly contributes to impactful initiatives like the Summer Meal Program, which provides over 60,000 meals to children in need throughout San Joaquin and Stanislaus counties.

As the demand for food assistance continues to grow, events like the Chili Cook-Off play a crucial role in ensuring that local families and individuals receive the help they need. Jennifer Mora, Director of Development and Communications at Second Harvest of the Greater Valley, emphasizes the importance of this community-driven event: “Whether you’re attending, competing, or sponsoring, your support helps make a difference.”

In addition to all the tasty and spicy homemade chilis to try, the event will include a raffle and a live auction.

Tickets for the cook-off are $20 for adults and $10 for children 10 years and under. The cost to enter the contest is $40.

Second Harvest of the Greater Valley Food Bank opened in 1976 initially serving senior citizens in San Joaquin County. Over the years it has expanded its reach and impact, now distributing more than 20 million pounds of food to 350,000 people annually in San Joaquin and Stanislaus Counties through a network of over 95 partners and food distribution programs.

Second Harvest of the Greater Valley Food Bank’s food assistance comes in many forms, including the Silver Harvest program, which provides supplemental groceries to at-risk seniors; the  Farm to Families produce cooperative, which allows the organization to provide fresh produce to individuals and families; and Fresh Food 4 Kids, which sees Second Harvest deliver pallets of food to participating schools. These deliveries include a wide assortment of shelf-stable items, meats, dairy products, milk, eggs, canned goods, fresh vegetables, and fruits. The school staff and volunteers set up an efficient distribution method, either walk up or drive thru, tailored to the specific needs of the school. 

Tickets and entry packets are available at localfoodbank.org/chili-cook-off.