12th annual Gourmet & Grapes raises significant funds for Hollings Cancer Center

February 12, 2020
people at dinner table raise cards at an auction
Gourmet and Grapes participants enjoyed five days of events. Photo provided

The 12th annual Gourmet & Grapes, a signature fundraising event for Hollings Cancer Center at the Medical University of South Carolina, raised more than $1 million this year.

The record-breaking amount raised during the Jan. 29 through Feb. 2 event had Debbie Bordeau, director of development for the cancer center, beaming.

“We are truly humbled by the amazing generosity of our guests, donors, sponsors, chefs, winemakers and every person who contributed to this year’s event,” she said. “Ultimately, we all come together for the same reason –the fight against cancer –and we could not be more thrilled that this year Gourmet and Grapes raised over $1 million for life-saving cancer research, patient support and our mobile health unit.”

Gourmet & Grapes, held over the course of five days at The Sanctuary at Kiawah Island Golf Resort, showcases local and regional culinary talent with award-winning wineries. The event raises funds and awareness for cancer research and patient programs at Hollings Cancer Center. This year, funds were also raised to support Hollings Cancer Center’s mobile health unit, which travels the state providing cancer screening and education services to communities designated as the most medically underserved.

Bordeau said the event is a celebration that nurtures community relationships and partnerships to bring everyone into the fight against cancer.

Jennifer Schuchart, market president of First Horizon Bank, loves the event. “At First Horizon, we were honored to support the cause of helping further cancer research at MUSC’s Hollings Cancer Center. As we continue to expand our footprint across the South Carolina Lowcountry, giving back to our local community becomes a top priority. The fact that we were able to contribute as presenting sponsor for such a wonderful and exciting event such as Gourmet and Grapes makes the effort fulfilling for our team and our clients.”

This year’s slate of events included an intimate dinner at G&G Uncorked; the BBQ and Bourbon Mashup; an exclusive black-tie private dinner; the Biking & Bubbles Tour; the Caviar & Champagne Brunch; and the Wine Odyssey Gala, featuring silent and live auctions and regional chefs preparing specialty and traditional favorites offered with vintner wine parings.

Since its inception in 2009, Gourmet & Grapes has now raised more than $4.57 million for cancer research programs at Hollings Cancer Center. Bordeau said that the event has had a powerful impact on the cancer center – one of only 71 National Cancer Institute-designated cancer centers in the nation.

“This contribution has proved invaluable in spurring an abundance of cancer research conducted in South Carolina through Hollings.”