'do good, eat good' raffle can turn $5 into lots o' dining dollars

For four years now, Michelle Venorsky has organized a delicious raffle that benefits Veggie U, the non-profit arm of the Chef's Garden that educates fourth-graders around the country on making better eating choices. The program funds education kits and lesson plans for teachers in our area and others.

To date, the raffles have raised $11,750 for the program.

As always, Venorsky -- aka Cleveland Foodie -- has assembled an impressive list of participating restaurants, all of which have generously donated gift cards.

Here's how it works: By donating as little as $5 to Veggie U, you will automatically be entered to win one third of $1,850 worth of gift cards. By upping the donation to $10, $25, $50 or more, you can increase your odds of victory. The more you donate, the better the chance of winning.

To donate and enter, simply call Veggie U directly (419-499-7500, M-F, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.) and reference Cleveland Foodie when donating. Or, click here to make your donation online.

Deadline is Noon on December 21. The drawing will take place shortly thereafter.

Here's the tasty lineup:

Fahrenheit $100
Paladar $50
Noodlecat $50
Greenhouse Tavern $50
Fire $50
Western Reserve Wines $50
Blue Canyon $50
Pura Vida $50
Light Bistro $50
Spice Kitchen & Bar $50
AMP 150 $50
Flour $50
Umami $50
Momocho $50
Hodge’s $50
Washington Place Bistro & Inn $50
Mahall’s $50
Melt $25
SOHO $50
Urban Herbs 14-jar gift set
Miles Farmers Market $50
Burntwood Tavern $50
Veggie U sampler box
CVI dinner $100 value
Welshfield Inn $50
87 West $50
Flying Fig $50
Cedar Creek Grill $50
Luna Bakery $50
Deagan’s $50
Lola $50
Parallax $50
L’Albatros $50
Chinato $50
Cowell & Hubbard $50

For more info, click here.