Hundreds of wrapped and filled holiday shoeboxes were donated during the 17th Annual Holiday Shoebox Reception & Collection held on Saturday, December 3rd at the Lakewood Ranch Elks Lodge. The event featured a holiday market, raffled items, silent auction, food, drinks, and live entertainment. The silent auction featured items donated by Fusilly’s Kitchen, Allure Nails & Diva Salon, Kacey’s Seafood and More, Van Wezel, Universal Studios, Koquina Spa at Esplanade, Libby’s Neighborhood Brasserie, Sofia’s Mediterranean Restaurant, Legacy Golf Club, Captain Brian’s Seafood Market & Restaurant, as well as additional baskets donated by the staff at Meals on Wheels PLUS of Manatee. In addition to the hundreds of shoeboxes donated, the event raised over $10,000 to support the vital mission of Meals on Wheels PLUS of Manatee. “It’s a nice, festive event that benefits so many clients,” said Ron & Marcia O., volunteers who attended the event. “It’s so much fun for a great cause,” added Lori V., an event attendee.
The event was made possible by the Presenting Sponsor—Lakewood Ranch Elks, Sponsors—The Blessing Bags Project, Truman’s Tap and Grill, Tidemark Financial Services & Insurance, Vision Source, Gerling Law Group, Cascade Women’s Club, Barbara Milian, Lippert Components, Carol & Bob Carter, Del Taco, Mobile Dynamics, and Esplanade at Lakewood Ranch, and In-Kind Sponsors—Dillard’s, Artisan Lake Esplanade, Esplanade Art Group: Crafts for Causes, and Lynn Spins!
