Good food has a way of bringing people together, and in Campbellford it’s also helping support local health care.
The 10th annual Incredible Doctors’ Cook Off returns Friday evening as one of the signature events leading into the Incredible Edibles Festival, pairing local physicians with culinary professionals for a friendly cooking competition that raises money for Campbellford Memorial Hospital.
Foundation Development and Communications Officer Shari Gottschalk says it’s a recipe that’s worked for a decade.
While guests enjoy appetizers, live music from Bay City Band, auctions and raffles, the evening’s larger purpose is helping fund equipment and supplies that directly support patient care.
Gottschalk says many people are surprised to learn that hospitals depend on local fundraising to purchase much of the equipment patients rely on every day.
Funds raised through the evening support the Campbellford Memorial Hospital Foundation’s mission to purchase medical equipment and enhance patient care, while also helping prepare for the community’s future Campus of Care and new hospital project.
The Cook Off has become a natural companion to the Incredible Edibles Festival, which celebrates local food, agriculture and community along the Trent-Severn Waterway. This year’s festival also features more than 50 local food and beverage vendors, Artisan Alley, Critter Corner, live entertainment, a beer garden and, for the first time, a Sensory Hour to create a quieter festival experience for those who may benefit from it.
This Friday’s event will also provide a few laughs as doctors and culinary partners delight guests with appetizers inspired by life around the hospital.
The Incredible Doctors’ Cook Off runs from 5:30 to 9 p.m. Friday under the marquee beside the Trent River in downtown Campbellford. Tickets are $100 and include appetizers, entertainment and access to the evening’s auctions and prize draws.
Organizers say tickets are nearly sold out and encourage anyone interested to purchase them as soon as possible.
(Written by: Joseph Goden)
