POST FALLS - Cooking for a cause.

That's the theme behind the Chili Cook-off on Sunday from noon to 3 p.m. to benefit the Post Falls Friendship Kitchen at St. George's Catholic Church.

Nine restaurants will participate and compete for awards at the church at 2010 N. Lucas St. Proceeds will go toward a buying a cooler and freezer for the kitchen, which has served those in need for 24 years.

"We expect to have even more restaurants next year as we want to make this an annual event," said Genesis Finley, a volunteer at the kitchen.

Cost is $7 per person or $20 per family.

Kootenai County Fire and Rescue firefighters and attendees themselves will be the judges. The awards include: People's Choice, Most Innovative and Best Overall.

There will be raffles and T-shirts for sale at the cook-off.

The total estimated cost for a cooler and freezer is $4,500. About $1,000 has been raised for the equipment so far.

Advance tickets are available at the church office or by calling 755-0952.

The all-volunteer kitchen provides meals each Thursday from 4-5:30 p.m. for 125 to 170 people, including some take-out meals for those who can't make it to the kitchen.

The kitchen is funded by St. George's, private donations and donations from meal recipients. Much of the food is donated by area food banks and grocery stores.

Info: Vicky Winkler, 755-9788 or [email protected].