Food, wine and charity come to together at Toast of the Coast

Sep 30, 2017

Community supporters showed up in droves for the 11th annual Gleason Family YMCA Toast of the Coast fundraiser at Marion Music Hall on Friday night.

Event-goers were able to taste a variety of food items from local caterers and restaurants, paired with wine and beer from Sullivan Wine & Spirits of Wareham. According to Executive Director Debbie Fringuelli, Toast of the Coast is one of the major fundraisers for the Y.

"This is our biggest special event fundraiser," she said. "Typically for the YMCA you need a signature event, and it's about awareness. Raising money is part of our jobs."

The money raised will go toward financial assistance for membership, programs, and summer camp for those that could otherwise not afford it.

"Having access to the Y is super important," Fringuelli said. "Finances shouldn't be a barrier."

The yearly goal is to raise $131,000. Tickets for Toast of the Coast cost $50 in advance, or $55 at the door. Fringuelli said about 100 tickets had been sold, around half in advance.

Additionally, there was a live auction and a silent auction to raise money. An updated total on funds raised will be published when available.