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About 1,500 expected at gumbo cook-off in Kzoo

KALAMAZOO, Mich. (NEWSCHANNEL 3) - Hundreds flocked to downtown Kalamazoo Sunday afternoon for the annual gumbo cook-off, a fundraiser benefiting the homeless in West Michigan.

The creole themed event was founded after a Kalamazoo leader made a trip to New Orleans and brought the flavors home.

Hundreds of pounds of fresh seafood were were served up in Kalamazoo, some flown in from New Orleans, even, ready to feed the masses, and all for a cause.

More than 30 contestants all competed for the top honors in Kalamazoo's Entertainment District Sunday afternoon, as the best gumbo.

Despite friendly competition, it's all about something more, as proceeds benefit Ministry With Community, a nonprofit that serves the homeless in Kalamazoo.

"These people have to go somewhere," said Bill Sarkozy, the cookoff founder. "They are people that cannot have their needs met, and it's important people support them."

Everyone agreed that Sunday was a great day to celebrate cajun cooking while benefitting a greater cause.

Around 1,500 people were expected in the Entertainment District today.

The event wraps up around 7:00 p.m.