The Florida Strawberry Festival presented the proceeds from this year’s Strawberry Ball to the United Food Bank of Plant City, on July 21.
The $50,000 check was handed over to Mary Heysek, director of the local food bank on the festival fairgrounds.
The 48th annual Strawberry Ball was a social event that included dinner, dancing, and a live auction, with the ocean theme “Under the Sea.”
It took place on April 30 in the Charlie Grimes Family Agricultural Center.
“This year’s Strawberry Ball was a huge success,” said Florida Strawberry Festival Chairman of the Board Phil Waldron. “Everyone enjoyed the food, the dancing, the theme, the entertainment and, of course, the fellowship, but more importantly, we find great satisfaction in knowing the fundraising from this event will impact local families in a big way.”
The event has been hosted by the Florida Strawberry Festival since its inception. Originally held prior to the Festival’s opening as a kickoff to the season, several years ago the committee voted to host the ball after the festival as a post-event celebration.
The 49th Strawberry Ball will be held on April 29, 2023.