ORANGE PARK – A sold-out crowd of guests at the recent Night of Hope event enjoyed food and drink from a number of local restaurants. The gala fundraising event at Sullivan Hall on Fleming Island culminated with the announcement of the winners of several People’s Choice Awards.

Voting took place throughout the evening, as guests tasted a variety of dishes including Mediterranean, seafood, Italian and desserts. Food station sponsors included: The Urban Bean Coffeehouse Cafe; Sweet by Holly; OP Fish House & Oyster Bar; Hovan Mediterranean Gourmet; Enza’s Italian Restaurant; Bonefish Grill; and Carrabba’s Italian Grill.

Guests were asked to vote on the best tasting food, as well as which food station had the best presentation. Taking First Place for “Best Taste” was Bonefish Grill. Second Place for “Best Taste” was awarded to Dalton’s Sports Grill and Third Place to Hovan Mediterranean Gourmet. OP Fish House won the most votes for “Best Presentation.”

Mercy’s ‘Night of Hope’ is the signature fundraiser event that provides support to Clay County families inclusive of housing, training and counseling services. State Sen. Rob Bradley was the Honorary Chairman of this year’s event and Christinne Perez served as the event’s Chair. The evening was presented by Platinum Sponsor Odessa Realty Investments.

Photos from the event are posted on Mercy Support Services website at www.MercySupportServices.org.

Mercy Support Services was founded in 2012 to provide help to displaced families, single parents and homeless children and adults in Clay County. Working collaboratively with churches and other non-profits agencies, Mercy helps Clay County families in crisis who need assistance to get back on their feet.