GALLERY | A taste of community spirit at the 17th annual Ogeechee Hospice Chicken Dinner

Ogeechee Area Hospice held its 17th annual community chicken dinner on November 1, 2024, drawing a crowd eager to enjoy a hearty meal for a good cause. With proceeds supporting the area’s only non-profit hospice, the event highlighted the power of community and the dedication of local volunteers.

Ogeechee Area Hospice (OAH) held its highly anticipated 17th annual Community Chicken Dinner on November 1, 2024. This long-standing event, which has become a staple in the community, featured plates piled high with Captain Todd Hutchens’ famous barbecue chicken, green beans, corn on the cob and cookies, all for $10 per plate. Proceeds went directly to OAH, the region’s only nonprofit hospice, which provides essential care in nine counties.

Organizing this event is no small feat, with the Bulloch County Sheriff’s investigator captain Todd Hutchens leading a team of volunteer chefs. The volunteers work through the night, grilling more than 2,500 chickens to meet community demand. This effort goes beyond just a meal; it’s a testament to the support OAH receives from Bulloch, Screven, Candler, Evans and many more. “They are a huge help to us,” he said Tinker LanierManager Donor Relations, Facilities and Marketing. “Todd is just taking over and we are grateful for everyone involved.”

OAH’s recent accreditation is a milestone and underlines the quality of care it provides. Lanier emphasized the importance of this recognition: “It is an extra special boost for us, confirming that we are doing what we need to do – and doing it well.” OAH has the distinction of being the region’s only nonprofit hospice with an inpatient facility, providing essential services, including respite and residential care, for families in need of additional support.

For those who missed the pre-order deadline, the day of the event offered a limited number of additional boards for last-minute visitors. Every year the response from the community has been overwhelming, with some even surprised by how quickly the records sold out. “If you missed it, be sure to put it on your calendar for next year,” Lanier joked, adding a friendly reminder to follow OAH for updates on upcoming events.

The community’s connection to OAH goes beyond the chicken dinner. The annual “Mistletoe Memories” event, scheduled for December 3, invites families to honor deceased loved ones. This heartfelt occasion includes a tree lighting ceremony, ribbon tying, children’s activities and a special visit from Santa Claus.

To watch the live stream of the chicken dinner, click below