Communities Host Chili Fundraisers, Memorial Events

Communities in Tennessee, Texas and Alabama are hosting chili events to support local causes. Upper Cumberland Habitat for Humanity’s 22nd annual cook-off and bake sale is set for Oct. 23 in Smithville, with proceeds benefiting the organization. In Wichita Falls, the fire department’s Kelly Crush Memorial Chili Cook-Off raises scholarship funds for firefighters’ children while honoring Crush, a firefighter who died after battling ALS; the event includes chili, beans and salsa competitions. The Southwest Fire Department in Auburn will hold a chili dinner and raffle on Nov. 12, 2026, benefiting its firefighters association.