By Allison Peck
NORTH PLATTE, Neb. — Nearly $6,000 was raised and more than 500 food items were collected during the 31st annual FNBO/Mid-Plains United Way Chili Cook-Off on Oct. 9 in North Platte.
The event brought together nearly 20 chili teams and offered more than 30 varieties of chili for attendees to sample, with proceeds supporting Mid-Plains United Way and its partner agencies.
Mid-Plains United Way said additional donations are still coming in, and its online donation portal will remain open for those who want to contribute.
The food drive collected more than 500 items for the North Platte Catholic Food Pantry. Organizers said the food was taken to the pantry following the event, where it was sorted and placed on shelves for distribution to people in need. Checks will also be sent to other area food pantries.
The nearly $6,000 raised will be distributed to Mid-Plains United Way partner agencies to support local programs, services and resources. Check presentations are expected to begin this week.
The cook-off also featured competitions for best chili and best booth.
Guardians of the Children – FlatRock Chapter took first place in the best chili competition, followed by Two Brothers Yak in second and Dayspring Bank in third.
Guardians of the Children also won first place for best booth. Trego-Dugan Aviation placed second, and Great Plains Health took third.
The event's pie-in-the-face fundraiser benefited local food pantries, with Aaron Lewis Vieyra and Braxton Fecht both reaching personal fundraising goals and taking pies to the face.
Mid-Plains United Way thanked its chili teams, sponsors, volunteers and attendees for supporting the event.
Double Dips, The Original Ice Creamery, provided another addition to the event, offering attendees a way to cool off while supporting the community gathering.
The cook-off coincided with the launch of Mid-Plains United Way's “Reimagine” campaign, which encourages the community to rethink how it gives and find new ways to address local needs.
Organizers said the event demonstrated the impact of neighbors helping neighbors, with local businesses, volunteers and residents coming together to support organizations serving the North Platte area.
Final fundraising totals, check presentations and additional event highlights are expected to be announced this week.