Coco Fest raises $2k for Meals on Wheels
(CNS Local Life): Close to 2,300people took part in a celebration of all things coconut at the annual Coco Fest held Saturday, 9 February on the grounds of Pedro St James. In addition to showcasing coconut-inspired food, drink and activities, the event raised almost $2,000 for featured charity Meals on Wheels.
More than two dozen vendors participated, offering Cayman-made products featuring coconut as the main ingredient, ranging from cakes, seafood rundown, kombucha and popcorn to cleaning brushes and beauty items, stated a press release from the Tourism Attraction Board (TAB), which manages the historic site. The bulk of the funds raised came from the entry fee, with a dollar donated from each paid admission, for a total of $1,413.
“The support was extraordinary this year, I think that we have grown leaps and bounds,” said Debbie Bodden, Pedro St James operations manager in the release. “From Grace Coconut Water and Pepsi who are always willing to assist the community, Red Cross representatives looking after our patrons and vendors, to additional guards on loan by theSecurity Centre and support by officers of the RCIPS, we are truly grateful.”
She also noted the help of Fidelity Bank, “who came on board recognising this is a community-focused event; their participation was invaluable”.
Visitors to the event were able to meet with local artists at theVisual Arts Society’s market, which included an arts-and-crafts area. Children enjoyed cultural demonstrations on how to make a smoke pot and coconut husk sailboat by members of the Cayman Catboat Club. In addition, artisan Carmen Connolly showed off her skills with coconut frond art and demonstrated how to scrub a floor with a coconut husk, TAB said in the release.
Grace Coconut Water and Cayman Spirits Company (CSC) created a fundraising cocktail called the “Cocohito” that sold for $5, of which $2 was donated to Meals on Wheels.
“We were happy to partner with Pedro St James and Grace products this year to help for a charitable cause. The proceeds from our specialty drink was a smashing success and we raised $500 to donate to Meals on Wheels,” said Sarita Singh, CSC events coordinator.
Erin Bodden, Meals on Wheels general manager, spoke of the importance of the donations to the charity’s work. “Coco Fest is a fantastic family event that embodies our Caymanian culture and heritage,” she said.
“We were grateful for the opportunity to be a part of the event this year where we could engage with attendees and educate them about our complimentary meal delivery service to 230+ seniors across Grand Cayman. Thanks to the generous donation from the entry fees and the signature cocktail, we are another step closer to our 2019 funding requirements.”
Category: Culture, Local News
