Popular United Way event in Vicksburg canceled for 2020

One of United Way of West Central Mississippi’s most popular social events has been canceled for this year. The 2020 Dine and Stroll the Old Mississippi River Bridge: Supper on the ‘Sip has been called off due to safety concerns regarding the COVID-19 pandemic.

“After much discussion and prayers, we have decided to cancel the event,” said Ali Hopson, Supper on the ‘Sip co-chairwoman. “Safety is our main concern and we do not see how it would be possible to hold this event during this pandemic.”

In a normal year, Supper on ‘Sip draws approximately 1,500 people to The River City’s most recognizable land mark, and the event draws attendees from surrounding states. In 2019, the event was held on Sept. 26.

“This event is not only good for our partner agencies and sharing the United Way story, but it also is a huge pull for the tourism industry,” said Kami May, director of marketing and community relations.

May mentioned attendees purchased tickets from 11 states last year, which was an increase from the seven states that were represented in the inaugural event in 2018.

Although this event has quickly become a hot ticket item with tickets selling out in less than 24 hours last year, Supper on the ‘Sip is also the United Way’s annual campaign kickoff reminding the community it is time to make an investment in your community. This event also generates extra funds for the United Way’s 17 partner agencies, and 100% of ticket sales are divided and given straight to the agencies. Thanks to the organization’s yearly sponsors, agencies will still receive funds even though the event is not happening. Casino Vicksburg (formerly Lady Luck), Regions, International Paper, Paul and Donna Ingram and Merit Health River Region have all agreed to donate their remainder sponsorship dollars for 2020 to the United Way partner agencies.

United Way has five events throughout the year and during this unique year the organization has only used 33% of sponsorship dollars.