Community Corner

Major Farmington Fundraiser Raises $35K For Police, Local Aid

Farmington Community Chest's  March 28 event set an attendance record.

Farmington Community Chest's 14th Annual Wine, Beer & Spirits Tasting on March 27 drew record attendance to benefit the local nonprofit.
Farmington Community Chest's 14th Annual Wine, Beer & Spirits Tasting on March 27 drew record attendance to benefit the local nonprofit. (Patrick Kiniry/Farmington Community Chest)

FARMINGTON, CT — A prominent local nonprofit had a massively successful fundraiser last month, with officials this week announcing that records were broken.

The Farmington Community Chest raised about $35,000 at its annual fundraiser last month, drawing a record crowd and supporting local public safety and community programs.

Roughly 230 people attended the organization’s 14th Annual Wine, Beer & Spirits Tasting, held March 27 at the Farmington Polo Club and rebranded this year as the “March Madness Mixer.”

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Proceeds will benefit the Farmington Police Benevolent Association (PBA) and other local initiatives.

The PBA assists police officers, their families, and community members during times of need, organizers said.

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“This year’s event truly exceeded expectations,” said Chris Andrews, president of the Farmington Community Chest. “Seeing neighbors, businesses, and friends come together to enjoy the night and support one another is what this organization is all about. The generosity of this community continues to show up in a big way, and it’s something we never take for granted.”

The event featured tastings from Connecticut-based vendors and international producers, along with food offerings and a live broadcast of NCAA Sweet 16 games.

Organizers also held raffles and auctions with prizes donated by local businesses, including recurring attractions such as a “cork pull” and a themed wheelbarrow of beverages.

Sponsors included The Bottle Shop of Unionville, Quinoco, the Luke Roux Memorial Fund, Maple Tree Nursery, Plainville Electrical Products Co., and Ron’s Automotive, among others.

Event organizers said safety measures remained a priority.

The Luke Roux Memorial Fund sponsored designated driver efforts, providing Uber ride vouchers for attendees.

Now in its 14th year, the fundraiser set a new attendance benchmark, reflecting continued growth and community participation, according to organizers.

The Farmington Community Chest, a volunteer-led nonprofit founded in 1931, raises and distributes funds to support local services and residents in need.

For more information on Farmington Community Chest and to donate, click on this link.

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