Laughter and live music filled the patio at American Beech in Greenport Thursday as supporters gathered for the eighth annual Blast for CAST fundraiser.
The nonprofit’s signature summer event supports programs providing food, housing assistance, education and workforce training to thousands of North Fork residents.
“This is really a celebration of all the people who contribute to and support our organization,” said CAST board member Lori Cohen. “Everybody on the square is pitching in. It’s for a perfect cause and everybody enjoys it.”
CAST is on pace to distribute more than 495,000 meals this year while serving more than 1,500 families — totaling more than 4,000 people — across Southold Town and Shelter Island. Executive director Erica Steindl said the organization has already provided 250,000 meals in 2026.
“Our mission is to provide a safety net and promote self-sufficiency,” Ms. Steindl said. “We support our neighbors in a very holistic way through client support, advocacy, education and outreach. The meals and support go to hardworking people that just can’t work enough to make ends meet. That’s where we come in.”
Photos by Nick Mongiovi
This year’s event included a new champagne reception featuring sparkling wine from Sparkling Pointe and oysters from Little Ram Oyster Company. Greenport Harbor Brewing Company and 1943 Pizza Bar also provided food and drinks, while NOIZ supplied the night’s soundtrack.
“First of all, it’s fun, and it’s for a good cause” said CAST board member Betsi Gertz. “Put those two things together, and it’s the party of the summer.”
Ms. Steindl said she hoped the evening’s support would continue making a difference after the party ended.
“I hope people take away that everything they do for CAST really makes a difference in the lives of the community we serve,” she said.
The post Blast for CAST lives up to its name at Greenport’s ‘party of the summer’ appeared first on The Suffolk Times.
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