Master Chef Blends Hope with Stardom

He stood at the door wearing his signature crisp white apron, baseball cap, and winsome smile.

Jeff Philbin, a contestant on Fox’s “Master Chef”, welcomed everyone who entered Fodder and Shine to join the viewing party.  Determined to use his popularity for a good cause, Jeff has been donating the proceeds of silent auctions and raffles to various Tampa Bay organizations.

On this particular week, he chose Eckerd Kids’ Friends of the Children.

“I am not about the self-gain through this process,” Jeff assured guests. He added, “If I can be a vessel to support our community with these efforts, then mission accomplished and we have truly made an impact!”

Friends, family, and locals gathered at the restaurant to watch as the latest episode of the show aired, cheering each time Jeff appeared on screen. During commercial breaks, many bid on items at the silent auction table and donated directly to Eckerd Kids.

Over the excited chatter of guests, Jeff smiled and shared with a friend, “Friends of the Children is a great program. I’m happy to help.”

Learn more about Eckerd Kids’ Friends of the Children program >>>