An afternoon of live music, hors d’oeuvres, cocktails, and casino games at the Signia by Hilton Orlando Bonnet Creek welcomed 300 guests as they came together to raise $379,000 for Second Harvest Food Bank of Central Florida during the nonprofit’s annual Ultimate Garden Party.
The event on May 17 raised enough money to provide 1.5 million meals for Central Floridians experiencing food insecurity.
With cuts to funding supporting the purchase of foods from farmers, such as proteins, dairy, and fresh produce, Second Harvest said every financial contribution to the nonprofit goes to “feeding hope” to kids, families, and seniors across the area, according to a press release.
“The Ultimate Garden Party is a powerful reminder of what’s possible when our community comes together for a cause,” Derrick Chubbs, President and CEO at Second Harvest said in a press release. “At a time when federal resources are shrinking and demand remains high, this kind of local generosity helps stock our shelves and keep our mission moving forward – and we’re grateful for every dollar donated.”
Local vendors like Kendra Scott, Jillian Says! Soy Candles and The Pink Chalet held an exclusive Trunk Show where they donated 25 percent of their sales to Second Harvest.
According to a press release, Second Harvest is able to stretch every $10 into enough food for 40 meals, providing for the one in seven Central Floridians facing food insecurity.