MORGANTOWN, W.Va. — An annual benefit to support the United Way of Mon and Preston Counties Helpful Harvest Program will be hosted this Thursday at the West Virginia Botanic Gardens.
The 4th Annual Spice of Life at West Virginia Botanic Garden will take place on October 22 at the Terrace at Tibbs Run where over two dozen local restaurants will be offering sample dishes to support food insecurity. United Way MPC board member Nany Walker encouraged Morgantown area residents to take part with all proceeds directly supporting local food banks in Monongalia and Preston Counties.
“It’s wonderful community event,” said Walker. “We have over 14 restaurants that will be bringing tapas samples of what they do and you buy your tickets, you come in and you just roam around and eat.”
According to Walker, the 14 restaurants that will take part in the 4th Annual Spice of Life will include a combination of sit-down eateries to renowned food truck vendors. These range from Oliverios to the Pop Shop as well as sweet vendors that will offer sampling plates until 7:30 p.m.
“The Michael family barbecue, which is a member of our committee and her husband does barbecue, Oliverios, Peeking House, The Pop Shop, we just really are very fortunate,” said Walker.
The proceeds from the event will directed support the United Way MPC Helpful Harvest Program and their ongoing efforts to fight food insecurity within the region. This includes close to a dozen individual pantries located in Mon and Preston Counties that takes over $30,000 a month to support.
“We are spending approximately $30,000 a month to buy the food and the food is given to each of the food pantries, and there is no cost to the food pantries,” said board members Wendy Noll.
Tickets are $50 per person with doors scheduled to open just before 5:30 p.m. on Thursday. On-site valet parking available once you arrive at the Botanic Gardens with tickets available to purchase online through the United Way MPC website. With award winning food expected to be served, Morgantown area residents are encouraged to come join in and help a good cause.
“Botanic Garden staff will be directing you down the hill so there will be some parking attendant that will help you park and then find the venue,” said Noll. “Come up to the door if you already have your tickets, just let the folks know at the door.”
Dining and Cooking