Tim's Famous Chili Dinner draws crowds to Food & Fellowship Mission

Mission volunteer Kristina Lauzon, vice president Zainia Brockett and president Tim McAllister helped serve McAllister's chili last Friday night during a fundraiser for the Mission.

Tim’s Famous Chili Dinner drew large crowds to the Amherstburg Food and Fellowship Mission, all to support the Mission’s operations.

Hot, mild and vegetarian chili was prepared for those who stopped by last Friday evening, with proceeds from the ticket sales helping the volunteer-run Mission.

The chili was from the secret recipes of president Tim McAllister, with it being accompanied by rolls, coleslaw, desserts and drinks.

“We have a combination of everything, so everyone has a wonderful time,” he said.

The heavy duty preparation of the chili begins Thursday with McAllister starting to put everything together. He finishes Friday with the right level of spices and ingredients to make sure the chili tastes just right.

“It is a lot of work but our team came together and made everything simple,” said McAllister. “Now when the people come in, we are excited and have a good night.”

While McAllister leads the chili preparation efforts, he pointed out he doesn’t do it alone. He estimated about 20 people volunteer to help and do everything from running to the store for any ingredients they might be missing, setting up the Mission in preparation of the public and doing various other duties from cleaning up to taking tickets and more.

“They all do different jobs,” said McAllister. “We were all doing different things to bring it all together. Everyone chips in right from the start. I didn’t have to run out to get anything. Everyone helped out and made it a beautiful day.”

People were coming in from as far as Windsor to enjoy Tim’s Famous Chili Dinner in addition to strong support from the people of Amherstburg.

“It makes me feel happy,” said McAllister.

The Amherstburg Food and Fellowship Mission is regularly looking for volunteers and people can find out more about opportunities by e-mailing aburgmission@yahoo.com or calling 519-736-9140. The public can also find out more about the Mission by exploring their newly redesigned website at www.aburgmission.ca. The Mission is located at 298 Victoria St. S.

Tim's Famous Chili Dinner draws crowds to Food & Fellowship Mission

By Ron Giofu