VALDOSTA- The Inaugural Southern Soul Macaroni and Cheese Cook off Competition kicks off on Thursday, November 17th at 6 p.m. at the Cotton Corner.

Local restaurants will compete for bragging rights of having the best southern macaroni and cheese. Funds from the competition fully support the local homeless shelter, LAMP (Lowndes Associated Ministries to People, Inc.) during National Homeless Awareness Week. With the purchase of a ticket, participants will vote on the “People’s Choice Winner”.

Three local celebrity judges: Daniel Folsom (West Corportation-ClientTell), 2016 Valdosta Woman of the Year, Attorney Karla Walker and Brooks County Schools ECHOES Afterschool Program Director, Janie Jones will vote and decide on the “Foodie” Award for the best macaroni and cheese.

There will be a silent auction and an opportunity to learn more about the services the shelter provides homeless clients and homeless community members. Tickets may be purchased at the shelter located at 714 Charlton Street, Steel’s Jewelry or Jessies Restaurant and catering. For more information contact 229-245-7157 or sdenton@lampinc.org. Sponsorship opportunities are also available.

In 1984, a small group of individuals, churches, and the synagogue in Lowndes County, Georgia, formed Lowndes Associated Ministries to People (LAMP) as a clearinghouse that would monitor and steward the distribution of local assistance dollars. Over the years, LAMP has become more than just a clearinghouse, it is now Lowndes County and the surrounding area’s local mission for the homeless. LAMP is funded through grant money as well as private donations from the community.

“LAMP is a caring community of faith providing for the basic needs of homeless and hurting members of our community. We believe that all persons are created in the image of God. We operate on the premise that all of God’s children have the same needs of food, clothing, shelter and love.”