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Charleston Wine + Food Festival Invests $360,000 in Local Community

  //food-wine.news-articles.net/content/2026/01/28 .. festival-invests-360-000-in-local-community.html
  Published in Food and Wine on Wednesday, January 28th 2026 at 5:52 GMT by Post and Courier
      Locales: South Carolina, UNITED STATES

Charleston, SC - January 28, 2026 - The Charleston Wine + Food Festival (CWF) has announced a significant $360,000 investment in the Charleston community through grants awarded to 22 local nonprofit organizations. These funds are dedicated to bolstering food security, expanding culinary education programs, and strengthening the hospitality workforce - areas identified as critical needs within the Charleston metropolitan area.

The CWF, renowned for its annual celebration of culinary excellence and regional wines, has consistently demonstrated a commitment to community engagement extending far beyond the festival dates. This latest round of grant funding underscores the organization's dedication to long-term, positive impact. "Giving back to our community is a cornerstone of Charleston Wine + Food," stated Ginetta Cheadle Vanaskunas, President and CEO of CWF. "We're proud to support these organizations that are making a tangible difference in the lives of so many."

This year's grant recipients represent a diverse array of organizations tackling food-related challenges from multiple angles. The Lowcountry Food Bank, a perennial recipient of support, will utilize its funding to expand its reach in providing food assistance to individuals and families facing hunger. Growing Hope will further develop its urban farming initiatives, increasing access to fresh produce in underserved communities. The Charleston Farmers Market, a vital hub for local producers, will receive support to enhance its operations and ensure continued access to locally sourced goods.

Beyond immediate food access, the CWF is also heavily investing in the future of the culinary landscape. The Kitchen Incubator will use grant funds to provide resources and mentorship to aspiring food entrepreneurs, fostering innovation and economic growth within the local food system. The Culinary School of Charleston will expand its scholarship programs, providing opportunities for talented individuals to pursue careers in the hospitality industry. These investments address the ongoing skills gap and workforce shortages facing restaurants and hotels throughout the region.

The grants aren't limited to established organizations. Florence County First Steps, Second Harvest Food Bank of Coastal Carolina, Golden Hour Children's Foundation, Husk Foundation, Coastal Community Foundation, The Mark Foundation, East Cooper Community Outreach, Charleston Coalition for Food Justice, Food Works, Faith Lutheran Church, Operation Hope, My Friends Helping Friends, Community Weavers, SC Thrive, Ready to Bloom and Charleston Compass are also amongst the beneficiaries, highlighting the breadth of CWF's support and its commitment to reaching diverse populations and addressing localized needs.

The economic impact of the CWF festival itself is substantial. Attracting thousands of visitors each year, the event generates significant revenue for local businesses and supports numerous jobs. However, this recent grant distribution demonstrates that the CWF views its role as extending beyond economic stimulus. By actively investing in the social infrastructure of the Charleston area, the organization is aiming to create a more equitable and sustainable food ecosystem for all.

The 2026 festival, scheduled for March 6-9, is expected to build upon this momentum, providing a platform to showcase the vibrancy of Charleston's culinary scene while simultaneously raising awareness of the critical issues addressed by the grant recipients. Festival attendees can expect opportunities to learn more about these organizations and contribute to their missions. As the Charleston area continues to grow and evolve, the commitment of organizations like the Charleston Wine + Food Festival to community investment will be paramount in ensuring a thriving and inclusive future for all residents.