For more than a decade, locals have been donating money to victims of domestic violence with an event with a reputation of pleasing taste buds.
The Domestic Violence Intervention Center will host its 11th annual Taste of East Alabama fundraiser on Tuesday from 6-10 p.m. at the Marriott at Grand National in Opelika.
The event features food samples from a variety of local restaurants, a silent auction and live entertainment by the band Route 66.
"Once the patron pays to come in, they have an unlimited sampling of the food," said Lisa Stephens, executive director of DVIC. "It is always lots of fun."
Tickets are $30 for adults and $15 for children 12 and under.
Restaurants participating in the fundraiser range from local favorites to well-known chains, including Panera Bread, Price's Barbecue House, Niffer's Place, Chick-fil-A and 15 others.
"This will be our third year participating in the event," said Terri Meeks, owner of Marble Slab Creamery in Opelika. "Last year we won the Best Dessert category."
Meeks said his store typically brings six flavors of ice cream to share including coffee, cheesecake and butter pecan.
"This is one of those organizations that we want to try to help if we can," Meeks said. "This is a big fundraiser for them, and it is a lot of fun."
The silent auction is another way supporters can donate to the cause.
Meeks said the he bought a basketball signed by Auburn women's basketball coach Nell Fortner after the team won the SEC championship in 2009.
"You would be amazed at what you can pick up," Meeks said. "They have some great items to auction off."
Many Auburn students plan to attend the event in support of the local charity.
"When I heard about the fundraiser, I thought it would be a great way for students to give back to the community," said Meredith Mercier, junior in nutrition. "You can eat dinner, bid on items and listen to music while helping someone in need."
At last year's event, crowds of 250 to 300 people helped to raise nearly $10,000 for victims, according to Stephens.
The DVIC has been helping victims of domestic violence in five counties in East Alabama since 1981.
"We provide emergency shelter, a 24-hour crisis line, case management, legal and child advocacy, support groups and much more," Stephens said. "The money that we raise with this event will go to help victims to start over."
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