On October 18, nearly 500 guests gathered at Fremont Studios for FareStart’s 34th Annual Gala. Together, we raised $2.3 million to support FareStart’s food and job training programs.
Behind that milestone is a community that invests in people, their talents and futures. The evening was a celebration of what’s possible when we work together to support each other.
Students are always at the heart of our work. We got to hear from Anthony who shared his experiences, giving guests a closer look at his journey from shy student to kitchen leader. His story brought the evening’s purpose into focus, and his words offered a reminder of the strength we find in community:
“Sometimes it’s you. Sometimes it’s me. But there’s always going to be a we, so let’s show our greatness together.”
We are so thankful to all our hospitality partners for the care and attention to detail they brought to this year’s menu. We are grateful to Pastry Chefs and Bakers Ben Campbell and Linnea Scott of Ben’s Bread, Chef Holly Smith of Cafe Juanita, Chef Melissa Miranda of Musang, Kilig and Wildcats Catering, Chef Dan Kiley of Kaspars Catering & Events.
Our thanks also go to winemaker Charles Smith of House of Smith Wines for providing the evening’s wine, Elliott’s Oyster House and Taylor Shellfish Farms for their generous oyster bar donation.
Hear from these hospitality partners about their connections to FareStart.
Looking for another way to contribute?
If you love fantastic wine, Charles Smith and House of Smith will donate half the cost of a wine club membership back to FareStart. Click to sign up for 24 award-winning bottles and for each membership, Charles will donate $650 to FareStart. This offer will end November 13, 2026.
This record-setting evening reflected the generosity and dedication of many people. Thank you to the guests, donors, sponsors, gala co-chairs, gala committee, board of directors, volunteers, FareStart chefs and staff who helped bring it to life.
A special thank you to all sponsors and partners:
Check out photos from this years gala here!
Couldn’t attend? Your donation directly supports job training for people overcoming barriers to employment. Make a difference with a gift!
