In the last four years, the Alabama River Chili Cookoff has benefited several local charities.

That tradition will continue in 2016 with the Selma Area Food Bank.

Members of the Leadership Selma-Dallas County Class XVIII made the announcement last week.

Last year’s fundraiser raised $12,500 for SABRA Sanctuary, which helps victims of domestic violence.

A different local charity is chosen each year. Each year, the cookoff has grown and the amount donated has increased.

Five years ago, the total donation was $5,000.

This year’s chili cookoff will be Thursday, April 7.

The Selma Area Food Bank is located at 497 Oak Street. They have been serving Dallas, Marengo, Perry and Wilcox counties since 1993.

For every dollar donated, the Selma Area Food Bank can provide more than 20 pounds of food to families in need.

More than 20,000 clients are helped each month by their work.