The Angels for Ashley team is once again firing up the smokers to raise money for St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, continuing a local tradition that blends barbecue and generosity. The annual St. Jude Cook-Off began Wednesday, with Boston butts, ribs, and chickens available in Whitesville where the crew tends to the pits around the clock.
The fundraiser is part of WBKR’s St. Jude Radiothon, an annual two-day event that invites the community to give back to the children’s hospital where families never receive a bill for treatment, travel, housing, or food.
Now in its 13th year, the cook-off has become a cornerstone of community giving. In 2024 alone, it raised more than $140,000. This year, organizer Jerry Morris and his team are aiming to reach $100,000, helping support the lifesaving work at St. Jude.
The cook-off continues through Friday with meals available at the following locations:
- Thursday: Whitesville Mercantile, Knottsville Water Department, Weber’s Corner, Norman McDonald’s Country Drive-In, and Shoe Stop — all starting at 9 a.m.
- Friday: Whitesville Mercantile, Knottsville Water Department, Weber’s Corner, and Shoe Stop — all beginning at 9 a.m.
Meat will be available around midday each day. Meal prices are:
- $15 for chickens
- $25 for ribs
- $35 for Boston butts
Morris founded Angels for Ashley in 2011 after raising funds to build a home for Ashley Johnson and her family. The nonprofit has since become a key partner in the WBKR St. Jude Radiothon and a major contributor in the fight against childhood cancer.
Last year, the group cooked 1,200 Boston butts, 1,000 ribs, and 1,500 chickens. This year, they’re hoping to top those numbers with the help of their “small army” of volunteers.
Community support continues to play a major role. In 2024, an anonymous donor gave $25,000 to help Morris meet his goal.
During a 2017 visit to St. Jude, Morris learned it costs $2.2 billion annually to operate the hospital, a number that drives his passion.
“St. Jude is very dear to my heart. I can’t explain how I feel about it,” he said. “Our donation is just a drop in the bucket, but it’s a great accomplishment for the community and hopefully an inspiration to others.”
This year, Morris is again encouraging supporters to join his “100 $100 friends” campaign. He’ll be set up at Shoe Stop on Thursday and Friday, hoping to recruit new donors to the cause.
