A recent charity event in Washington, D.C. was as tasty as it was philanthropic. The non-profit group Heart of America Foundation sponsored a charity gala (April 16th) that brought together chefs and celebrities to raise money for a good cause. For producer Amra Alirejsovic, VOA's Jim Bertel has all the delicious details.
It was a chocolate lover's fantasy: cakes, ice cream, and other confections all made from chocolate. The tasty treats were part of the Heart of America Foundation's "Sweet Charity" celebration, a fundraiser marking the group's 10th anniversary. The group raises money to change the lives of children living in poverty. Organizers say chocolate is a metaphor for the sweetness and potential in every child.
More than 50 pastry chefs from some of Washington's top restaurants were on hand to share their delicacies. Theresa Souther is from L'Academie de Cuisine. "It's a way to give back in a unique way. It is great way to meet people. It is a great way to feel that what we are doing is more than just feeding people, but actually helping to change lives."
Chocolate could be found everywhere, even on the runway. Nisha Sidhu of CoCo created a one-of-a-kind outfit.
"We are calling it a chocolate couture, and almost her entire dress portion is covered with chocolate, so it is extremely heavy. There are about 125 chocolate gems, and it is coated in chocolate to simulate leather. Jewelry is made entirely out of sugar."
Model Ashley Williams is a chocolate lover and expressed her love for the food. "I personally love food, so wearing it is even more fun. I feel though like I am going to melt."
Many celebrities modeled the gourmet garments including professional athletes, local celebrities and professional models.
Money from the event will be used to buy books for libraries, classrooms and children living in poverty in the Washington area.
