West Columbia’s 52nd Annual BBQ Fundraiser Brings Community Together for a Cause

West Columbia’s BBQ Charity Event is a Hit!

This past Saturday, the lovely city of West Columbia, S.C., was filled with the irresistible smell of BBQ as the community came together for the 52nd annual BBQ fundraiser hosted by Mount Hebron United Methodist Church. The event kicked off bright and early at 8 a.m. and kept going until 1 p.m. on October 5, 2024. This treasured tradition has become a staple for many locals, with family and friends gathered in droves to enjoy some delicious food while supporting a great cause.

A Labor of Love

The BBQ fundraiser is organized every year by the church’s men’s group, and it’s no small feat! The team begins preparing for this mouthwatering event a remarkable six months in advance. Jim New, co-chairman of the BBQ committee, shared some insights into what makes this event so special. “We light the fire on Thursday evening about 10 o’clock,” he explained. “The bed of coals burns down and then we cook hams for the BBQ.”

That’s right! The cooking process lasts a total of three days. On Friday morning, the hams hit the grill, and they’re cooked throughout the night. By the time diners arrive on Saturday morning, the aroma is something you just can’t resist. After the lengthy cooking process, the hams are chopped up, sorted, sauced, and then packaged into containers for hungry customers. Also, there’s a carry-out line and a buffet line for those wanting to chow down right there!

Community Spirit Shines

This year, there was an added twist to the BBQ setup! The men’s group used wood from a tree that had fallen on the church property during Hurricane Helene to build the BBQ pit. It was a clever way to recycle a bit of nature while staying true to community spirit. Talk about turning a challenge into an opportunity!

As the smoke billowed and the BBQ pit sizzled, nearly 800 people turned out to lend their support. The lines were long, but laughter and chatter filled the air, turning waiting into a fun experience. The sense of camaraderie was palpable as everyone didn’t just come for the food, but also to foster community bonds and support one another.

A Cause Worth Supporting

While enjoying the delectable BBQ, patrons were reminded that this event goes beyond just good eats. The money raised from the fundraiser is channeled into vital church ministries that help people in need. In fact, the funds contribute to mission trips, home repairs, groceries, clothes, and snacks for individuals facing tough times in the community. It’s a wonderful cycle of giving where every bite nourishes not only the stomach but also the soul of West Columbia.

Looking Ahead

As this year’s event wrapped up, there was already talk about the next BBQ fundraiser and how to make it even better. With such enthusiastic participation and keen support from the community, it’s clear this tradition is here to stay. So, mark your calendars for the first Saturday in October next year—this BBQ is not something you want to miss!

In conclusion, the 52nd annual BBQ fundraiser at Mount Hebron United Methodist Church exemplified what it means to be part of a community. Delicious food, laughter, and support for those in need all in one place—West Columbia shines brightly in these moments of unity!