Growing Chefs will host its 15th annual From Farms to Forks fundraising gala on Sunday, October 5 at A-OK Café inside the Aritzia Head Office in Railtown. The event coincides with the charity’s 20th anniversary and aims to raise $150,000 in support of programs that connect children, youth, and families across the Lower Mainland with food education and access to nutritious meals.
The gala is structured as a roaming kitchen party where chefs, growers, and producers collaborate to offer tasting plates and beverage pairings. Guests can also take part in live and silent auctions, with proceeds funding educational initiatives that promote sustainable and equitable food systems.
This year’s roster features a range of chefs and restaurateurs, including Meeru Dhalwala and Shira Blustein of Lila, Claire Livia Lassam and Jordan Pires of Livia, Wayne Kozinka of A-OK Café, Jesse McCleery and Melanie Witt of Pilgrimme, Lucais Syme of Autostrada, Andrea Carlson of Burdock & Co, Amelie and Vincent Nguyen of Anh and Chi, and Matt Gostelow of The Acorn. Bruno Feldeisen of Food Network will also participate. The evening will be emceed by Fred Lee and Margaret Gallagher, with live music from Josephine Choi and the Leo Raymundo Jazz Trio.
Early bird tickets are available until August 31 for $200 at Growing Chefs. Prices increase to $250 afterwards, with options for a $2,000 ten-ticket bundle or a VIP table for four. Local companies or individuals can support the event as sponsors or donate items to the auction.