SAN ANTONIO – The annual Taste of the Northside event has established itself as a premier gathering for food enthusiasts, offering an impressive array of elevated culinary delights and beverage options. While attendees may experience some sticker shock with ticket prices starting at $300, the event’s purpose transcends mere indulgence.
Organized to benefit the Brighton Center, a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting children with disabilities and intellectual delays, every dollar spent contributes to a meaningful cause. The Brighton Center serves approximately 5,000 children annually, providing essential therapeutic services that many families struggle to afford.
Katrina Campbell, CEO of the Brighton Center, emphasizes the critical need for financial support: “The number one thing that would prevent kids from getting their therapeutic needs met is not being able to afford it or having insurance that maybe doesn’t support it. At the Brighton Center, we don’t turn any child away.”
The center provides scholarships for children whose insurance does not cover necessary services, as well as tuition assistance for its preschool program. Campbell notes, “We offer scholarships for anybody whose insurance can’t do it. We offer scholarships for tuition for our preschool, but we couldn’t do that without events like Taste of the Northside.”
Despite the high ticket price, many attendees are more than willing to contribute to the cause. One attendee remarked, “Just a great event for a great cause. It seemed like the right spot to be. Love the crowd. Love the energy.” This sentiment echoes throughout the event, where the atmosphere is charged with enthusiasm and community spirit.
Although Taste of the Northside occurs only once a year, the Brighton Center remains active throughout the year with various fundraising events aimed at supporting local families. Campbell highlights the center’s commitment: “The goal is to provide community events while uplifting the children they support through the Brighton Center.”
In conclusion, Taste of the Northside serves not only as a celebration of culinary excellence but also as a vital source of funding for essential services that ensure children with disabilities receive the care they need. By participating in such events, attendees play a crucial role in fostering a more inclusive community.
