A chili cook-off for a cause took place Friday to support residents of the Valley dealing with mental illness.

National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) Mahoning Valley's Fifth Annual Chili Cook-Off was held at Penguin City Brewing Company to bring chili masters and chili tasters under the same roof.

"We're hoping to raise at least $5,000," Hope Haney, co-executive director of the event, said. "We did that last year, so we're hoping to do that or maybe even better."

Haney says that over 230 people from the public were in attendance, along with 12 contestants and NAMI Mahoning Valley volunteers. 

The organization offers free services for Mahoning and Trumbull County residents dealing with mental illness. They offer free support groups, art classes, yoga sessions and more led by trained facilitators. 

 

Winners for several categories were voted on at the event, including: 

  • Phil Wright, Most Unique Chili
  • Prosecutor Lynn Maro,  Best Overall Chili
  • Full Spectrum Community Outreach, Hottest Chili