Sweet Charity is Chester County Community Foundation‘s (CCCF) signature charitable dessert and networking event, when supporters usually gather to indulge in incredible sweets and treats in support of this long-standing community institution. However, like so many events during COVID, CCCF is pivoting this year to present Sweet Charity in a different and safe way!
Instead of an in-person gathering, CCCF is hosting the fundraiser as an educational, engaging and free series of Zoom talks called Food for Thought, held at noon every other Tuesday in March. On March 16, 2021 at 12 p.m., PA Eats will join fellow thought leaders Kimberton Whole Foods and Pete’s Produce Farm to discuss the topic of “Growing and Sourcing Locally: Where Does My Food Come From?” Registration is free and open to the public.
While you’re welcome to snack on a cookie while you’re tuning into the interactive Zoom talk, there is another fun way to enjoy the dessert action that’s usually the centerpiece of Sweet Charity! The second part of the series, which provides an opportunity to support the Chester County Community Foundation, is the Sweet Charity Golden Ticket. Tickets, which are available for between $100 and $1,000, can be exchanged for four gourmet desserts from Carlino’s Market in West Chester. Grab your golden ticket by March 18, then stop into Carlino’s between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., March 25 through 27. In the spirit of Sweet Charity’s past competitions, you’ll get the chance to vote for your favorite dessert and join a final Zoom discussion on March 30 to discover the winner. Carlino’s Executive Pastry Chef Jessica Perez will be on the Zoom to share dessert creation tips, and a winner will be randomly drawn to receive a Carlino’s gourmet food basket!
“We could all use something sweet as a pick-me-up during these challenging times,” notes Karen Simmons, President and CEO of the Chester County Community Foundation. “The pandemic exposed many issues affecting our friends and neighbors in Chester County, issues like people going hungry and relying on food banks, grocery stores running out of food, and the distribution of nutritious meals to high-risk groups like seniors. While we miss gathering in person with friends, sponsors, and guests, we are looking forward to Food for Thought: Sweet Charity edition.”
For more info and to register for our Zoom talk on March 16 (remember, it’s free and open to the public!), head here. To learn more about Chester County Community Foundation and its philanthropic missions, visit its website.
- Feature photo: Carlino's Market