SPRINGFIELD – Online ticket sales are now open for the the third annual Homebrew Showcase for All Our Kids, supporting foster and adoptive families and children in foster care. The event takes place at Paddy’s Irish Pub, 1060 Wilbraham Road, on Aug. 3.
Available through July 29 for a $25 donation, advance ticket packages include guaranteed admission and an exclusive Homebrew Showcase T-shirt and can be purchased at https://homebrew2019.itemorder.com/sale. Admission at the door is $15, but is dependent on space and T-shirts are not included. A ticket to the showcase grants a participant the opportunity to sample beers from a variety of local homebrewers, enjoy complimentary pizza, and enter to win a number of exciting raffle prizes.
All Our Kids, the beneficiary of the event, is a 501(c)(3) regional nonprofit founded in 2017 with a goal of strengthening the sense of community among foster and adoptive families in Western Massachusetts while engaging the public in supporting these families, and raising awareness about the needs of children in foster care. The organization supports families by providing mentorship and resources, an active online community, local networking, special events and quarterly in-person social gatherings. All Our Kids also disseminates information about foster care and adoption through its website, newsletter, blog, and podcast.
“All Our Kids is honored to be the beneficiary of this great event, and proud to use this opportunity to raise awareness about the needs of foster and adoptive families in our communities. One of our goals is to ensure every individual and business has a role to play in supporting foster and adoptive children and their families. Attending or participating in the Showcase is a great way to support our families, and all our kids,” said Dr. Marianna Litovich, founder & board president of All Our Kids.
In the previous two years, the fundraiser has collected nearly $5,500 for children in the Massachusetts foster care system and the families who support them. Western Massachusetts faces unique challenges when it comes to the Department of Children and Families (DCF) and the state foster care system. DCF has 31 offices, including area offices and the central office. Western Massachusetts has five offices covering our four counties and those offices reported 2,110 of the state’s 9,183 children in placements as recently as last December (DCF FY19 Q2 report).
“While those offices have many terrific professionals who work very hard advocating for children, it’s clear there is a dire need for support for the youth involved in this system and the families who open their hearts and their homes to them,” said Showcase co-organizer Chris Maza. “All Our Kids helps fill the gaps and we are proud to support their efforts by creating a unique and fun atmosphere in which brewers can showcase their talents in a fun and relaxed environment.”
For more information on the Homebrew Showcase, visit https://jumpingcometbrewing.wordpress.com/homebrew-showcase/, the Facebook event page (https://www.facebook.com/events/2072890989635224/) or contact Chris Maza at [email protected]. or visit them on Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/fosteringAOK/)or Twitter (@fosteringaok).
