SOUTH BOSTON — More than $350,000 was raised at the Lovin’ Spoonfuls Ultimate Tailgate 2017, which was held at the Black Falcon Cruise Terminal.

The money raised will be used to allow for the “rescue and distribution of healthy, fresh food that would otherwise be discarded.” According to its mission statement, Lovin’ Spoonfuls works “to efficiently deliver this food directly to the community organizations and resources where it can have the greatest impact.”

At the event, Ashley Stanley, Lovin’ Spoonfuls founder and executive director, honored board member Andy Youniss with this year’s Thomas M. Menino Award for Leadership Award. The guests were welcomed to the event by TV show host Andrew Zimmern.

Attendees enjoyed food from incredible chefs and restaurants from Providence up to Portland, and TJ Connelly spun the party soundtrack.
After a video about the organization’s work, Zimmern again took the mic — and made a plea for food justice, and for support on Lovin’ Spoonfuls’ behalf, raising more $60,000 in just a few minutes. (The winner of the 50/50 raffle donated her winnings back to the organization.)

All photos are by Bill Brett.

Lovin' Spoonfuls

We especially want to thank our Host Committee, this year chaired by Board Member Adam Amontea. Our dear friend Andrew Zimmern welcomed everyone to the VIP hour and spoke personally about his affiliation and role within Lovin’ Spoonfuls. Our dynamite COO Lauren Palumbo proudly and passionately spoke about the year’s operational milestones, organizational goals, and inspired the crowd to get to know who we are, and why our model works. Our VIP celebration closed with a touching video honoring Board member, and 2017 Thomas M. Menino Award for Leadership honoree, Andy Youniss. Ashley Stanley, Lovin’ Spoonfuls founder and executive director, presented him with this year’s recognition:

Lovin' Spoonfuls

Photo by Bill Brett

Lovin' Spoonfuls

Photo by Bill Brett

Lovin' Spoonfuls

Photo by Bill Brett

Lovin' Spoonfuls

Photo by Bill Brett

Lovin' Spoonfuls

Photo by Bill Brett

Lovin' Spoonfuls

Photo by Bill Brett

Lovin' Spoonfuls

Photo by Bill Brett

Lovin' Spoonfuls

Photo by Bill Brett

Lovin' Spoonfuls

Photo by Bill Brett

Lovin' Spoonfuls

Photo by Bill Brett

Lovin' Spoonfuls

Photo by Bill Brett

Lovin' Spoonfuls

Photo by Bill Brett

Lovin' Spoonfuls

Photo by Bill Brett