The 16th annual Jacksonville Bar Association Young Lawyers Section’s Chili Cook-off was Feb. 21 at the Riverside Arts Market.
The annual charity event is a huge day for the YLS, and this year proved no different.
Twenty-nine law firms, mediators and other legal practices competed and eight teams took home the coveted awards:
The partner charity this year was The Market at St. Mary’s Episcopal Church and Outreach Mission, so a donation drive to benefit St. Mary’s Market was also undertaken by all of this year’s competing teams and firms.
More than 2,000 goods and items were donated, and Klavon Mediation took home the award after donating the most items.
St. Mary’s Episcopal Church and Outreach Mission has a legacy of more than 60 years committed to feeding our neighbors. In the 1960s, it was a parish soup kitchen, which has evolved to a market-style pantry allowing guests their choice of dry goods, fresh and frozen foods and organic seasonal produce grown in St. Mary’s gardens.
In the market, people and families who find themselves in need of food assistance can plan healthy meals in a pleasant environment that prioritizes dignity and community.
Through strong grocery partnerships, a vibrant organic gardening program, a dedicated volunteer team and the support of local churches and civic groups, the Market at St. Mary’s has increased its capacity to serve nearly 200 households every week.
The YLS is thrilled to support this program and looks forward to seeing St. Mary’s mission grow through the use of the funds that were raised through the cook-off.
Thank you to everyone who came out to support St. Mary’s, voted for their favorite team, and enjoyed all of the chili.
The JBA YLS looks forward to seeing everyone again next year.