An Athens nonprofit is encouraging area residents and others to eat out for a good cause. The YWCO is hosting “East Side Eats.” The family-friendly event raising money for the nonprofit by providing samples of cuisine from eastside restaurants. It takes place at the YWCO gym on Research Drive Sunday from 5:30 to 7:30 pm. Assistant Director Becky Galvin says it’s also a great way to remind people what’s available on the east side of town.
“We’ve got 20 restaurants that are housed over on the east side of Athens, they are coming to our gymnasium and they are bringing one of their specialties,” Galvin said. “It’s a fundraiser for the YWCO but we also consider it a friend-raiser for the east side of Athens. There are some great restaurants on the east side of Athens and also some wonderful businesses and I think sometimes people forget about us.”
The event also features a silent auction, music, and activities for kids, including their own silent auction. Tickets are $15 each or $50 for a family of four. This is the second year for East Side Eats. Last year's event raised $8,000 for the facility.
The YWCO has been in Athens for over 100 years. It provides a variety of youth-programs including swim lessons, after school programs, and summer day camps. There are also programs for seniors and other adults.