Think Charitably, Eat Locally

Share Our Strength (SOS) is a national nonprofit organization founded by political activist Bill Shore in 1984. SOS works to alleviate and prevent hunger and poverty both in the United States and around the world. By supporting food assistance and promoting economic independence among people in need, Share Our Strength meets immediate demands for food while investing in long-term solutions for the problems of hunger and poverty. The organization mobilizes industries and individuals to contribute their time and talents to this important cause.

Taste of the Nation is America's largest culinary benefit to fight hunger. Every spring, chefs and restaurateurs in more than 80 cities across the nation hold events with the support of more than 10,000 volunteers. Corporate partnerships with the restaurant, food, travel, retail, and entertainment industries provide substantial support as well. Corporations such as Evian Spring Water, American Express, Williams-Sonoma Inc., Wusthof Trident Cutlery, and Calphalon Cookware lend a hand with sponsorships, licensing agreements, and cause-related marketing campaigns. Each year, 100% of the funds raised at Taste of the Nation fundraisers support anti-hunger, anti-poverty efforts; 70% is distributed locally, 20% nationally, and 10% internationally.

This Sunday, April 30, Austin's annual Taste of the Nation fundraising dinner at the Shoreline Grill (98 San Jacinto, 477-3300) benefits Caritas and the Sustainable Food Center. The festivities begin at 6:30pm with cocktails and consideration of silent-auction items followed by the gala dinner at 7:30pm. Local organizers are proud to announce that SOS founder Bill Shore will be in Austin for the party. This year, chefs from the Shoreline, Jeffrey's, Hudson's on the Bend, Ella's/Ranch 616, Fonda San Miguel, Si Bon, Cafe Josie, Bitter End, Manuel's, and Sardine Rouge will donate and prepare a sumptuous meal of many courses. Bidding for the original platters and chairs created by a diverse group of the city's most talented visual artists will begin during the cocktail hour and resume over dessert and coffee. Tickets are $175 per person. Seating is limited, so contact volunteer Dinah Barksdale (476-4543) for reservations.