Eat, drink and be charitable is the official theme for Share Our Strength’s Taste of the Nation, and even without the title, there was a bounty of all three at the sold-out event.
Approximately 450 attendees noshed on everything from lobster and shrimp in a beet taco, to miso polenta with stewed mushrooms, and bite-sized honey crème brule, all complimented by offerings from more than two dozen beverage partners.
The annual Taste of the Nation event, held at the Fairmont Hotel, has focused on ending childhood hunger in our community for more than two decades and this year’s extravaganza was no exception. Approximately $55,000 was raised for the cause through silent auction ticket sales and a new twist for 2014 included the launch of the Share Our Strength Cookbook – a partnership with Manitoba Pork, Granny’s Poultry and Deluca’s Fine Foods.
More than 40 top restaurants and 25 beverage partners donated their time, talents and products to showcase what they do best, giving Winnipeggers a chance to sample great food and refreshments while supporting the cause. The event supports programs that work towards ending childhood hunger in Winnipeg and around the world.
“We take pride that 80% of the funds raised are granted right back into the Winnipeg community, supporting school meal programs for inner city children and nutrition education programs,” says Jenny DeLury, Co-Chair of Taste of the Nation.
In 21 years, Share Our Strength Winnipeg has raised more than $1.8 million to support programs in the city.
Photos by LuAnn Lovlin