All dressed up for a night of cocktails at the Chicks with Cheques event are, from the left: Jane Schoones, team leader, Dundas and Stormont Community Food Share; Kristen Janz, manager, Black Dog Bistro; Cindy Johnston, hostess; Wendy Hill, director of resident and family services, OCC; Laurie Richard, coordinator of giving, OCC. Emily Dozois photo

METCALFE – Chicks With Cheques, a fundraising and networking reception, raised $8000 for the Osgoode Care Centre (OCC).

The event was held Dec. 5 at the home of Cindy and Brian Johnston in Metcalfe. The 88 guests each donated $100 and enjoyed a cocktail soiree complete with hors d’oeuvres from the Black Dog Bistro in Manotick, charcuterie boards from Moncion’s Your Independent Grocer in Gloucester South, and a take-home gift from Carleton Mushroom Farm. Additional sponsorship was provided by Hicks Insurance and Centennial Management.

All proceeds go toward the renovation and installation of a new kitchen at the Osgoode Care Centre.

“Our goal is to raise $700,000 for the kitchen renewal and so far we have about one-third of that,” explained Wendy Hill, director of resident and family services at OCC.

The current kitchen, built in 1986, was designed to serve 70 residents and was fitted with second-hand equipment at that time. OCC presently has 100 residents and the kitchen equipment is now outdated.

“The evening was a fun way to raise awareness in the community as to the needs of the Osgoode Care Centre,” said Hill. “So many people have a loved one staying here so it’s a great way for them to support the OCC and have a fun evening.”

The Johnstons have already agreed to host a similar event again next year.

Another event is being held in the new year to support OCC’s kitchen update project. On Jan. 31 at 7 p.m., “Busting Out The Brews” will be held at Stanley’s Olde Maple Lane Farm, 2452 York’s Corners Road, Edwards. Tickets are $40 and include local beer and wine, food selections from local chefs and businesses, live and silent auctions, and music by The Stone Face Sinners.

For more information and tickets call OCC, 613-821-1034 x 231, or visit the Pronto Convenience Store in Russell or Metcalfe Variety.