Relay for Life participants in 2018 exceeded their fundraising goals. Planners are now getting a jump on the 2019 event. Toni Milbourne

CHARLESTOWN — Cancer knows no season and those battling for a cure work year-round to secure funds for research. Locally, the culmination of the year-round work comes in June at the annual Jefferson County Relay for Life.

The traditional kick-off to the fundraising year begins in January, with Jan. 19 set for the 2019 start date. The event will once again be held in the Charles Town Baptist Church’s social hall, beginning at 2 p.m.

This year’s event begins with the traditional ceremony to recognize survivors and caregivers, beginning promptly at 2 p.m. From 2:30 to 4 p.m., the annual chili cookoff will be held, but with an added twist of a macaroni and cheese contest this year. The cost to taste and judge winners is $5 per person.

Anyone interested in participating in the chili or macaroni and cheese cookoffs need to register their entry either via email to relayforlife@aol.com or via phone to 304-283-3305. Winners will be announced at 4:30 p.m.

In addition to the two cookoff contests, Jefferson County’s Relay for Life teams will hold other fundraisers at their booths, throughout the afternoon.

Information on the Jefferson County Relay for Life will be available at the event, where those interested can find out how to organize a team or join a team already formed.

The Jefferson Relay has grown over the years, and, in 2018, exceeded the $100,000. Approximately 51 teams participated last June at the Relay for Life event, held at Jefferson High School.

The teams work to raise funds throughout the year by doing raffles, sales and other events, as well as gathering donations.

Top teams for 2018 included The Board of Hope, which raised over $19,000. Also coming in the top three was Hearts of Hope, who raised more than $17,000 for the cause, while Barb’s Blessings garnered over $13,000. The hard work and dedication of each and every team member helped secure funds to be used for cancer research to help find a cure for those suffering with the disease.

For more information on signing up to enter the chili and/or macaroni and cheese cookoffs, or to find out how to support an existing team or join Relay for Life with a new team, email at relayforLife@aol.com or call 304-283-3305.