PELHAM – SafeHouse of Shelby County is hosting its third Southern Cookin’ Showdown on Saturday, April 27, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Pelham City Park.

This family-friendly event features a cooking competition among teams of four. Both amatuers and professionals are welcomed to compete in three categories – Sweets, Meats and Fixins’. A panel of judges will determine winners in each category and guests at the event may sample all of the entries and vote for the People’s Choice award.

In addition to taste-testing, guests will be treated to live music and children’s activities. Tickets are $15 each and kids 10 and under are free. The cost is $150 per team of four. First responder teams are free.

SafeHouse is also seeking sponsors for the event with sponsorship levels ranging from $250 to $5,000. SafeHouse of Shelby County is hosting the event with proceeds benefitting its domestic and sexual violence response and prevention programs.

SafeHouse is a nonprofit that provides domestic and sexual violence response and prevention programs to the public and shelter for those who are homeless as a result of abuse. Those who do not need shelter have the opportunity to receive other services through SafeHouse, such as counseling.

Its sexual assault center offers forensic exams for survivors of rape. Clients participate in additional services including case management, counseling and legal advocacy.

The agency also offers violence prevention education, which exposes local youth to the warning signs of abuse and encourages them to pursue relationships built on love and respect.

To sign up to participate or to purchase tickets, go to Southerncookinshowdown.swell.gives.