Chili cook-off raises awareness of Army Emergency Relief program

By Justin Creech, Belvoir EagleNovember 7, 2014

Chili Cookoff
(Photo Credit: U.S. Army) VIEW ORIGINAL

Fort Belvoir, Va. (Nov. 6, 2014) - Members of the Belvoir community showed off their chili-making skills during a chili cook-off sponsored by the Fort Belvoir Army Community Service Army Emergency Relief program at the Community Center, Nov. 30.

The 12 contestants raised awareness for AER while competing for gift cards in the categories of best overall, best hot and spicy recipe and most unique recipe.

Recipes ranged from ground beef chili and ground chicken chili to shredded beef chili and vegetarian chili.

The goal for the event was to raise awareness and get donations for the Army Emergency Relief program, said Toni Cuttino, Fort Belvoir ACS AER, officer.

"It gets people to talk about the program," Cuttino explained. "We received donations, so it worked out."

Participants enjoyed the competition and the opportunity to bring positive attention to a worthy cause.

"I really like making chili. It's one of the meals my Family and I really enjoy. We've been making this recipe for the last 10 years, but I have adjusted it along the way," said Air Force Maj. Christina Franchetti, Fort Belvoir Community Hospital, general surgeon. "Plus, my Family and I try to be an active part of the community, so this is a way to give back."

Franchetti won the competition for best chili. She is flattered that her Family's recipe was voted the best, considering the number of participants.

"Every time we make it, we like it a little bit more," said Franchetti. "So, when I heard about the cook off I figured we should give it a try."

Other participants, like Jeffrey Vaughan, wanted to give back to AER since he has benefitted from the program. Vaughan, whose vegetarian chili of tofu, vegetables and beans was voted most unique, is an Army Reservist who is prior active-duty. He used funds from AER to get home for a Family funeral while on active-duty.

"I love raising awareness for Army programs," said Vaughan. "I've benefitted from the AER fund when I was on active-duty. So, I definitely want to give back however I can."

Organizing an event with a fun activity that brings the community together is exciting for Erica Drame, Fort Belvoir ACS Financial Readiness Program, manager. Drame brought up the idea of having a chili cook-off to Cuttino and is happy it proved successful for the community and the AER program.

"When you think about doing events for the community, you want to do something that is fun," said Drame. "It brings awareness to the program and its benefits. We just want the community to know AER is available for them, if they have a problem."

The AER fund is available for Soldiers on active-duty, their dependents, retirees and National Guard, and Reservists on active-duty orders for more than 30 days. Financial assistance comes in no-interest loans and grants to help with things like rent and mortgage payments, vehicle repairs, grocery bills, medical expenses and essential furniture purchases.

For more information regarding the AER fund, contact Toni Cuttino, ACS AER officer at (703) 805-3130.