Programa Sueños, a non-profit organization that raises funds to provide educational benefits to the children of San Antonio el Angel, Guatemala, will host its third annual spring fundraiser Wednesday, May 18, from 6 to 9 p.m. at Bedell Cellars in Cutchogue. The event will feature bites from local restaurants and food purveyors, as well as live music and Bedell wines.
Founded by former North Fork resident Jazmin Carrillo whose family moved from Guatemala to the U.S. 10 years ago, the organization began by providing scholarship programs to 10 children in 2013. In three years, Programa Sueños, which translates to “dreams program,” has grown to benefit 235 children and now offers music and sports programs. It recently partnered with Colgate to also provide dental care for the children.
“I am grateful for the support that my North Fork community has given to Programa Sueños,” Carrillo said in a press release. “I can’t wait to celebrate and continue raising awareness for these students in need.”
Last year’s fundraiser raised over $20,000 and the organization’s next big project is to build a new school.
“Their current school is in quite a bit of disrepair and there’s not even enough space for all the children who attend it,” said David Benthal, a Programa Sueños board member and Southold photographer. “Our goal is to build a new building to better accommodate their needs.”
Participating restaurants and food purveyors will include Noah’s, First and South, Love Lane Kitchen, Grace and Grit, North Fork Table and Inn, and Sang Lee Farms. Long Island chef Tom Schaudel will lead a live auction and Bedell Cellars will offer a cash bar. Live music will be provided by Sara Baglivi.
Tickets to the Programa Sueños fundraiser cost $50 each and can be purchased at eventbrite.com. For more information about Programa Sueños, visit programasuenos.com.
Bedell Cellars is located at 36225 Main Road in Cutchogue.
