By Michael Thompson
The S.W. Florida Heroes Foundation Inc., (www.SWFLHeroes.org) a local 501c3 Non-Profit is hosting the Battle of the Badges BBQ Cook-Off at Veterans Park in Lehigh Acres, FL. on Saturday April 18, 2020 from 11A-5P. The event will feature BBQ Teams made up of 1st Responders & Veterans from Lee, Hendry & Collier counties competing against each other for Braggin’ Rights. The public is invited to attend and enjoy the great BBQ as well as music from local Bands, Vendors, Raffles and more.
The event will also feature top BBQ Teams from across the South competing for Cash Prizes. The event begins at 11 AM with a special tribute, including the Lehigh Acres Fire Rescue Color Guard, to the Fallen Heroes of S.W. Florida along The James F. Crockford Jr. Memorial Walkway which is filled with Oak Trees donated by individuals honoring specific Veterans.
Vendor space is available for local business owners who wish to showcase their product and/or inventory at very affordable rates. Lehigh Acres Chamber of Commerce Members get even more savings. If you’re a local business and unable to attend the event, but would like to participate, consider donating an item or two to include in the Auction or as a giveaway for the Raffle.
The S.W. Florida Heroes Foundation is dedicated to supporting 1st Responders & Veterans in Lee, Hendry & Collier counties. Recently the Foundation helped a Homeless Veteran from Lehigh Acres whose adult Trike had suffered a broken axel. The Foundation was made aware of this and was able to provide the Veteran with a brand-new Schwinn Adult Trike. In Fort Myers Shores recently, the Foundation worked with Stancel Concrete, Cohen Concrete and ECM, to help a Vietnam Veteran with Parkinson’s Disease get a new concrete front porch with a ramp, to help him get in and out of his home easier for trips to his Doctor appointments.
The Foundation held a Quarter-Auction last week at El Tarasco Mexican Rest. In Lehigh Acres and raised over $600 to help 1st Responders & Veterans. “The Lehigh Acres community has been one of our biggest supporters over the last few years and we are excited to be a part of it’s growth and continued success moving forward. We hope our BBQ Competition in April encourages more Charities and businesses to host their Events in Lehigh Acres as well.” Said Michael Thompson, President of the S.W. Florida Heroes Foundation, Inc.
If you would like more details on the Event, make a donation to the Auction or become a Sponsor, please contact Michael Thompson at 239.340.1685 or send an email to SWFLHeroesFoundation@Gmail.com or visit them online at www.SWFLHeroes.org
