Supporting a great cause can sometimes be as easy as sampling some of Jacksonville’s best culinary creations. That is, if you’re attending the annual Children’s Home Society of Florida’s Caring Chefs event.
Now in its 36th year, Caring Chefs is scheduled from 7:30 to 9 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 20, at the Avenues Mall.
Throughout the mall, chefs from around Jacksonville volunteer their time and talent to serve a diverse menu of flavors the city has to offer.
“There are so many great and unique restaurants that are all over the city and I know that sometimes depending on where you're located you don't necessarily get out to certain areas and try certain restaurants,” said Samantha D’Agostino, special events manager of Children’s Home Society of Florida. “I would really love this event because you get a chance to experience some places that maybe you always wanted to try but have never had the opportunity.”
In addition to trying new foods, guests can enjoy wine, craft beer and live entertainment.
The Caring Chefs event draws more than 2,000 guests from around the region.
“This event is definitely deep rooted in our city's history,” D’Agostino said. “It’s growing and it’s getting bigger than ever.”
This year, unlike past years, Caring Chefs will also host a VIP Pre-Party for an “exclusive look at the event.” The Pre-Party will include early admission plus a designated VIP area with food, beverages and live entertainment.
At the heart of the Caring Chefs, however, is the Children’s Home Society of Florida, which receives about 90% of sponsorship dollars from the event. The nonprofit serves more than 10,000 children and families in Northeast Florida, which includes services like counseling, adoption, fostering and child welfare programs.
“CHS was founded in 1902, we are celebrating 115 years of being a leader in serving kids and families,” D’Agostino said. “It’s events like these that really help us to continue to help support our local families and the programs we offer them.”
