The Food Bank of Contra Costa and Solano announces its largest fundraiser of the year, the annual Nourish Gala Drive-in to Fight Hunger, on Thursday, May 19 at Concord’s West Wind Solano Drive-in.
Drive-in style Gala gathers the community for a “night under the stars”
A traditional gala in a drive-in setting, the Gala combines “the glamorous with the cozy” – and is dedicated to fighting hunger in our community. It aims to bring local families and friends together for a night of raising awareness of – and funds to help alleviate – food insecurity. The event also recognizes local organizations and businesses, features live entertainment and music by Golden State Warriors band the Bay Blue Notes, a hot three-course gourmet meal provided by Sunrise Bistro and Catering, and a drive-in showing of Back to the Future Part II.
Contributions and auction prizes include a “California Cuisine” class with Contra Costa College’s Professor and Department Chairman of Culinary Academy Chef Nader Sharkes, a summer package of “12 Days in the Bay” with passes to local attractions like USS Hornet, Diablo Rock Gym and Heretic Brewing Company, and an all-inclusive trip to Mexico.
Proceeds support food programs
All funds raised will go directly to feeding the community and food programs. This year, demand for food has increased by 40%. Coupled with the surging cost of living and inflation, access to nutritious foods has become impossible for the most vulnerable members of our community. Since last year, food prices have risen 5.2%, with the cost of meat and healthy proteins up by nearly 10%.
Kim Castaneda, Vice President of Development and Communications for the Food Bank, comments: “This event is an incredible chance to gather with fellow hunger fighters in our area – a night to gather in service of our neighbors in need. The funds we raise will allow the Food Bank to purchase even more fresh, whole foods, including fruits, veggies, meat and dairy products. Our goal is not to simply distribute more food, but to provide healthy meals that sustain our community.”
The event’s Platinum Sponsor is Kaiser Permanente.
“The Food Bank of Contra Costa and Solano has been a critical partner during the pandemic, finding innovative ways to ensure members of our community do not experience hunger,” said Nor Jemjemian, Senior Vice President and Area Manager, Kaiser Permanente Napa Solano. “Kaiser Permanente is proud to support the Food Bank because everyone needs – and deserves – access to healthy food.”
Tickets are $120 per person for general admission or $175 per person for the upgraded VIP experience, which includes priority entry, reserved parking and professional photography services. Tickets and information are available online at foodbankccs.org/nourishgala.
For more information, contact events@foodbankccs.org or call (925) 348-3282.
The word Gala interestingly comes from Latin, loosely translating to: “bring your checkbook”
Food insecurity: When you lose your grip on your corn dog, and the ice cream scoop falls off your cone.
They should have sent this announcement to Joe Bob Briggs of “The Last Drive-In” on AMC’s Shudder which new season begins this evening. He or Darcy might mention it. (Probably should have invited Joe Bob Briggs to emcee which would really pack the place and raise funds).
Interested