FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Independence Gardens Announces "Food Fight 2024" – A Chef Competition to Transform School Lunches 

Lewisville, TX – August 30, 2024– Independence Gardens is excited to announce Food Fight 2024, an innovative event dedicated to addressing food insecurity and enhancing school lunch programs. The event will take place on Saturday, September 14, 2024 (1:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m.), at TECC West,  1250A W Round Grove Rd, Lewisville, TX 75067

This unique competition will feature local chefs battling to create the most nutritious and delicious school lunches on a budget of just $4.43, the current National School Lunch Program      reimbursement rate.

Chonnie Richey, Founder and Executive Director of Independence Gardens, expressed her enthusiasm: “Food Fight 2024 is not just about showcasing culinary skills; it’s about highlighting the challenges and opportunities within school lunch programs. By bringing together talented chefs and community leaders, we aim to spark a broader conversation about the importance of nutritious meals for our children and the need for sustainable solutions.”

The event will feature a “Chopped”-style competition where chefs will prepare one main dish and one side item while adhering to strict nutritional guidelines. The dishes will be judged by 3rd, 4th, and 5th graders, ensuring that the young voices most affected by these meals have a say in what’s served.

Chef Jo Garcia, Board Member at Independence Gardens, added: “As a chef, I am passionate about making a difference in our community. Food Fight 2024 provides a platform to not only create delicious and healthy meals but also to drive meaningful change. We are excited to see how our local chefs rise to this challenge and how we can collectively improve school lunches.”

The event aims to raise awareness and funds to support Independence Gardens' initiatives, including the installation of HydroTowers and the expansion of the ‘Come and EAT IT’ cooking program. Donations from the $5 Boost Campaign will directly support these efforts, ensuring that more students have access to fresh, nutritious food.

Limited Tickets to the Public will be released:  https://www.eventbrite.com/e/food-fight-when-chefs-battle-kids-win-tickets-984031353267?aff=oddtdtcreator&lang=en-us&locale=en_US&status=30&view=listing

Media Contact: For media inquiries, interviews, or more information, please contact:  

Name: Chonnie Richey

Email: chonnie@independencegardens.org

Phone: (214) 500-7206

ABOUT INDEPENDENCE GARDENS                                                                                        

Independence Gardens is a nonprofit organization committed to ensuring every child has access to fresh food and transform the way children and communities understand, appreciate, and experience food. Through hands-on learning, cooking, and gardening programs, Independence Gardens empowers individuals to make healthier choices, fosters food education, and promotes sustainability.

Website:  www.independencegardens.org                                                                                  Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100064332656546                                  Instagram:  @igardensrev