Krysta Privoznik could have kept the $1,000 prize that came with being named Chicago’s 2026 Most Eligible Bachelorette.
Instead, she gave it away.
Privoznik donated her prize money to Zelda’s Kitchen Witches, a local nonprofit that helps women and their children who have experienced homelessness and domestic violence.
The donation is especially meaningful to Privoznik, who was born and raised in Lemont and is a survivor of domestic violence. She has spoken to community groups about her experience, hoping her story can help other women recognize that they are not alone.
Privoznik recently presented the donation to the organization’s board of directors.
“I never questioned where the money would go,” Privoznik said. “Domestic violence is a cause that touches me personally, and Zelda’s Kitchen Witches was the first organization to help me turn my voice into something that could encourage and empower other women.”
Privoznik earned the Chicago title after competing in an annual event produced by Most Eligible LLC. A total of 250 women entered the 2026 competition, and more than 130,000 votes were cast during six rounds of voting.
She was crowned July 15 at Experience 868 on Chicago’s Near North Side. Five women received 2026 titleholder honors, with Privoznik finishing in first place.
The money could have been used for any number of things, but Privoznik knew she wanted to put it toward a cause she understood personally.
“Supporting their mission was an easy decision,” she said. “Their work has already helped more than 300 women and their children rebuild their lives, and I hope this gift allows them to reach even more families.”
Zelda’s Kitchen Witches provides new kitchen items to women and their children who are moving into new housing after experiencing homelessness or domestic violence.
Janet Evans, a Palos Heights resident and founder and president of the nonprofit, said the organization works with other local nonprofits to find women who need assistance.
“We know how crucial it is to support these women as they start new lives,” Evans said. “Partnering with other local nonprofits, we’ve been able to identify these women who, in turn, are so grateful for our help.”
The kitchen items may seem simple, but Evans said they can make a difference to families who are starting over.
Privoznik plans to remain involved with the organization. She will attend Zelda’s Kitchen Witches’ annual donor recognition luncheon Oct. 4 at Crystal Tree in Orland Park, where she will offer a toast thanking the organization’s supporters.
She also plans to speak about domestic violence and the support available to survivors through organizations such as Zelda’s Kitchen Witches.
Privoznik’s title may have come from a competition, but she is using the recognition to bring attention to something much more personal.
Her $1,000 prize is now helping another woman and her children take a step toward a new beginning.
