Two years ago, Gary Grant’s daughter, Jessica Ludenia, was living in Watertown, MN. She was 33, had an eight-year-old daughter, and was dating a man named Casey Hoskins.

“My daughter was involved in a bad relationship,” said Grant. “She lost her life.”

On Nov. 14, 2017, Ludenia was killed by Hoskins. He was given a one-year jail sentence and 10 years’ probation.

“I have a lot of friends and have always wanted to do a rib fest,” said Grant. “Because of how my daughter died I thought I could tie it together with a benefit for Anna Marie’s Women’s Shelter.”

Anna Marie’s Alliance is a private, non-profit corporation in St. Cloud dedicated to providing safe shelter, support and referral services for battered women and their children. They also work with the community on systems change and violence prevention.

“If I can save one woman’s life that’s the goal,” said Grant. “That’s how it started. If it helps one person that makes me happy”

Last summer Grant and friends held the first Jessie’s Wish BBQ Cook-off & Benefit at Sam and Candy Samuelson’s home outside of Clearwater. They brought the money they raised directly to Anna Marie’s.

“It was a humbling experience, an eye-opener,” said Grant. “These women have nowhere to go.”

Last Saturday the Samuelson’s hosted the 2nd Annual Jessie’s Wish BBQ Cook-off & Benefit.

Although there were a number of events happening, including a bean bag tournament, chicken contest, hammerschlagen and fun for kids, the main event was the food. Fourteen groups grilled ribs throughout the day as well as providing additional food samples, all hoping to win votes from the crowd.

There were also raffles, including the grand prize of a Traeger grill.

At the end of the food tasting, People’s Choice ‘ribs’ was awarded to Bud Schindele, and People’s Choice ‘other’ was given to Paul Curtis and Mark Himmelspach for their jalapeno poppers.

The event raised around $6,200, nearly doubling last year’s amount of $3,500.

“My daughter was always a giver,” said Grant. “She wouldn’t want what happened to her to happen to anyone. This is about giving back, and Clearwater is a very giving community.”

Anna Marie’s Alliance has sheltered over 16,500 battered women and their children since 1979. Advocates are available 24/7 by calling 320-253-6900. For more information visit www.annamaries.org.