Since 1991, Florida Winefest & Auction has supported disadvantaged youth in Sarasota and Manatee counties by bringing together the best food and wine from the area’s top chefs and restaurants. Florida Winefest & Auction events are some of the most anticipated events of the year, and ones that make a tremendous difference in our community. One of the reasons the events are so well attended is because there is a purpose behind all that fun: raising funds to support local children’s charities. The setbacks of Covid did put things on pause. But now, the entire Winefest team is thrilled to be back and better than ever. They are ready to find amazing charity organizations to be applicants for grants in 2022.
Charities focusing on underprivileged children often have a wish list of programs that need additional support, from supplies, to facilities, to human resources. Florida Winefest & Auction has donated over $9 million to charities in the community over the past 30 years, helping fulfill those important needs. Grants from the Florida Winefest & Auction allows those charities’ efforts to reach even more children and families. All interested charities in the area are encouraged to apply now through June 30, 2022.
Who Should Apply?
Nonprofit charities (those with a 501(c)3 designation) in Sarasota and Manatee counties serving at risk, disadvantaged children, youth, and their families. Are you associated with a charity that has programs that need assistance? your charity. Your organization has a project that hasn’t been started yet due to budget. A grant from Florida Winefest & Auction can provide an invaluable influx of funding.
All applicants will be notified by September 30, 2022. Grant awardees will be announced at the Truffle Dinner on November 12, 2022, a signature event of the season. Grant money will be disbursed in 2023.
It’s Easy to Apply for a Grant From Florida Winefest & Auction
The brief application is available online at floridawinefest.org, and can be submitted directly there, or by mail. The application is due by June 30, 2022. Grant applicants will provide information about their charity, the specific program the grant monies will be used for, the contact person, and budget information. If you have any questions, you may email info@floridawinefest.org, or call 941-952-1109.
What types of charities have been awarded grants in the past? Past grantees have included:
Sarasota Manatee Association for Riding Therapy (SMART)
Big Brothers/Big Sisters
Volunteer Connections of Sarasota County
Selah Freedom House
Community Haven
For the full list of 87 past recipients, visit the link to the Charities tab.
Other Ways to Get Involved
Other than applying as a grant recipient, you can get involved with the Florida Winefest & Auction by attending any of the scheduled events, making a monetary donation or a donation of goods for the auction, or volunteering! Individuals as well as corporate sponsorships are welcomed. Whichever way you get involved; your contribution will help our community for years to come. Please email info@floridawinefest.org to get involved. Don’t forget to follow FWA on Instagram and Facebook to stay updated on all of the exciting events. Together we can make a difference in the lives of our children.