Ed Mendoza, chef and owner of local restaurants Cucina 503 and Local,  donated his time and talent at The Master’s Table Soup Kitchen’s fifth annual Benefactor’s Dinner on Feb. 24, raising thousands of dollars to feed the hungry.

The Master’s Table Soup Kitchen serves a hot, nutritious lunch to hundreds of hungry neighbors in downtown Augusta every day, including weekends and holidays. The annual Benefactor’s Dinner raises crucial funding to operate the Soup Kitchen for the rest of the year.

A member of the Golden Harvest Food Bank Board of Directors, Mendoza closed his restaurant and brought the Cucina 503 team to the Soup Kitchen for the event, serving more than 170 guests. Food Bank benefactors enjoyed a three-course dinner after a cocktail reception, featuring hors d'oeuvres prepared by Mendoza and his staff.

In addition, Mendoza also offered a catered dinner for 8, prepared by himself, in the event’s fundraising auction. This was one of the most sought-after auction items, and the winning bid of $8,500 took the prize.

The Benefactor’s Dinner raised a total of $175,000 and counting, and Mendoza’s culinary talent played an important role in the event’s success. 

“We are honored and incredibly thankful for Ed Mendoza’s generous contributions to our Benefactor’s Dinner,” said Amy Breitmann, President & CEO of Golden Harvest Food Bank. “With the funds raised, we will continue to strengthen our community with healthy, flavorful meals for our neighbors in need.”