edible Notable
by Tatum McIsaac
On March 24th, foodies and locavores alike will gather at Lombardo’s in Randolph for the 20th annual Taste of the South Shore fundraiser. More than two dozen area restaurants, caterers, bakeries, wineries, and breweries will fill the bellies of attendees—all in an effort to help under-served families on the South Shore. One hundred percent of the money raised goes to scholarships and financial aid for camps affiliated with the South Shore YMCA.
“Our local restaurants are passionate about helping their communities,” said Mary Orne, VP of Development for the SSYMCA. “This event gives them the opportunity to showcase their talent, while at the same time supporting programs for kids that foster an appreciation for healthy living.” Benefitting camp programs include those at South Shore Natural Science Center and Burgess Farm, where the camp curriculum includes farm education, honey-making, and daily fitness. Last year’s event raised enough money to help approximately 500 families with summer camp tuition.
Event coordinators of Taste of South Shore anticipate more than 600 attendees this year, but don’t let that number daunt you. “With the help of our restaurant and catering partners, along with the team at Lombardo’s, we create a night to remember for everyone involved,” Orne said. “It’s an opportunity to network, support a good cause and enjoy tons of amazing food and drink. Nobody has ever complained about being hungry at the end of the night!”
Participants in this year’s event—among others—include long-time supporters The Chef’s Table (Pembroke), Alma Nove (Hingham), Abby Park, (Milton) and Lavishly Dunn Catering & Event Planning, (Rockland). “We’ve had several former campers as employees over the years,” said event co-chair and owner of The Chef’s Table, Julie Ellis. “Former campers talk about how camp kept them on the right track, learning new skills, and embracing new experiences. We want to be part of ensuring that all kids in our community have those types of opportunities.”
Taste of the South Shore
Lombardo’s
6 Billings Street
Randolph, MA 02368
www.ssymca.org
Tatum McIsaac lives in Kingston with her husband and two children.
