Indulge in Chocolate to Your Heart's Content AND Support Homeless Relief

As if helping out those in need is not itself enough of a sweet reward, charity-minded folk and unabashed chocolate fanatics can find their bliss this weekend at a chocolate-tasting extravaganza.

The Columbus House 11th annual Chocolate to the Rescue to benefit its Middlesex Family Shelter is Sunday from 1-4 p.m. at Water’s Edge Resort & Spa, Westbrook.

This signature event attracts some of the finest chefs in the area. Guests will enjoy some of the best chocolate creations in the region and be able to vote for their favorites. Great auction items from local merchants will be offered with all proceeds will benefit the Middlesex Family Shelter, a service of Columbus House.

The expert panel of judges includes: 

• Roberta Lombardi of The Elegant Occasion
• Priscilla Martel, professional chef, educator and food writer
• Michael O’Leary, founder of the non-profit, Joseph Project of New Haven
• Christopher Prosperi, chef, educator, and co-owner of Metro Bis restaurant in Simsbury
• Chef Silvio Suppa of Benevento, Italy, owner and executive chef of Cafe Allegre in Madison and WoodWinds Banquet Facility in Branford
• Lee White of Old Lyme, food editor and restaurant reviewer for more than 25 years

Register at www.columbushouse.org/chocolate in the “News & Events” section for $30. A limited number of tickets may also be purchased at the door for $35.

Participating restaurants

• J.A.M.S.S., Old Saybrook
• Water’s Edge, Westbrook
• Tschudin Chocolates, Middletown
• Bushmill by the Waterfall, Chester
• Truffle Shots, Essex
• Sweet Sage Bakery, Middlefield
• Jordan Caterers, Cheshire
• Purple Carrot Foods, West Haven

Since 1982 Columbus House has been working with numerous city, state and federal agencies along with an entire continuum of non-profit service providers to help get people off of the streets, out of abandoned buildings, off park benches and into the safety of a shelter.

It has expanded services to include comprehensive case management as well as transitional and permanent supportive housing for homeless adults; children and their families; women with mental health disorders; adults in early stages of addictions recovery and homeless veterans.

According to the “Connecticut Counts 2011 Point-In-Time Homeless Count”:

• 4,465 people were homelessness in Connecticut
• 376 Veterans were homeless
• 482 families were homeless (with at least 1 minor child)
• 824 children were homeless

The number of homeless families in CT rose 15 percent between 2010 and 2011. Homeless families with children comprise 1/3 of all people counted.

For information, call 203-401-4400 x138 or email info@columbushouse.org.