Jolisa Canty

Staff writer

LUMBERTON — Local residents on Monday and Tuesday have a chance to eat a bunch of good food at a bargain price, while also contributing to a local nonprofit that helps people in need.

The annual Taste of Robeson, which raises money for the Robeson County Church and Community Center, will be held from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. each day at Bill Sapp Recreation Center, 1100 N. Cedar St. in Lumberton. The event will feature food ranging from barbecue to desserts.

The event allows visitors to sample foods from area restaurants. The price is $10 for adults, $5 for children 12 and younger and free for the little ones ages 3 and younger.

“This event is important because the proceeds will go to help us feed the brothers and sisters who are in need of food, clothing or help with bills,” said Darlene Jacobs, executive director of the Robeson County Church and Community Center.

In 2011, the event raised about $21,000, but last year that figure dropped to $9,000.

A few of the restaurants that will be providing samples will be Adelio’s, Cape Fear, Chick-fil-A, Two Guys Grille and Fuller’s Old Fashion BBQ. There will also be a silent auction with locally made arts and crafts available for purchase.

The Robeson County Church and Community Center helps people in a variety of ways, including helping them pay for medicine, rent and utilities. The center also helps people who are just getting out of jail or are homeless with clothing and food.

Jacobs said the center depends heavily on the fundraiser.

“It brings the community together, and at the same time helps out a worthy and vital ministry in Robeson County,” Jacobs said.

For more information, call the Robeson County Church and Community Center at 910-738-5204.