LAURINBURG — St. John Holiness Church held its Missionary Plate fundraiser on Friday, serving up something unique — chitterlings.
“Chitlins” is how many southerners pronounce the dish and it is pig small intestines, which go through a long cleaning process. Then it is seasoned, boiled or fried.
“People often wonder why we run out so early (but) we have such a demand for them,” said Peggy McRavin, coordinator. “We have pre-sales of 80 to 100 before we even start.”
She said an order for 41 plates came from Fort Bragg at 10 a.m. and the ladies have customers in Fayetteville along with Laurinburg, which makes each plate sale fundraiser a hot commodity.
“Two of our cooks used to work at Moe’s Chicken and Grill and they are known for their chitlins, “said McRavin. “So many people order them because of that. What is left over is for walk-ins and there is always something we need more of. ”
Customers chose chitterlings or tilapia, with the sides of sweet potatoes, rice, green beans, hush puppies, slaw and or salad. Sodas were included.
“We try to do as much as we can in the community, We did a major event after the storm giving food and clothing to storm victims after the hurricane,” said McRavin. “We also do a community day where we have free food, fun and games.”
McRavin said the church also gives during the Christmas season and delivers groceries to people — including the elderly and shut-ins.
“During Christmas we give hot meals and groceries, coordinating with Campbell Soup and local businesses to give to people in need,” said McRavin.
McRavin said the church will try to do different plate sales throughout the year to raise money for their capital and missionary funds.
Jael Pembrick can be reached at 910-506-3169 or jpembrick@laurinburgexch.wpenginepowered.com.
