End Hunger Connecticut! (EHC!) 25th Anniversary Reception & Benefit

End Hunger Connecticut! (EHC!) 25th Anniversary Reception & Benefit

Celebrate 25 Years of Nourishing Hope with EHC! at a cocktail reception honoring our impact and fight for a hunger-free Connecticut.

By End Hunger Connecticut!

Date and time

Friday, May 30 · 4 - 7pm EDT

Location

Hartford Marriott Downtown

200 Columbus Boulevard Hartford, CT 06103

Refund Policy

Refunds up to 7 days before event

About this event

  • Event lasts 3 hours
  • Paid venue parking

Join us for an evening of reflection, connection, and celebration as End Hunger Connecticut! commemorates 25 years of advancing the fight against food insecurity and strengthening communities across the state.

This special 25th Anniversary Cocktail Reception will honor our impact, recognize the dedicated partners who have made our progress possible, and reaffirm our commitment to building a hunger-free Connecticut for generations to come.

We are proud to pay tribute to an extraordinary group of honorees whose leadership has transformed the landscape of food justice, policy, and community wellness:


  • Congresswoman Rosa DeLauro – Keynote Speaker and longtime national advocate for nutrition and working families
  • Congresswoman Jahana Hayes – Champion for equity, public education, and child well-being
  • Sarah Leathers, CEO of Healing Meals Community Project – Compassion in Action Award
  • Keisha Grant, NBC Connecticut News Anchor – Voice for Justice Award
  • UConn Rudd Center for Food Policy & Health – Policy & Impact Award
  • Michael Copeland, community advocate – Community Champion Award
  • Pastor Kristopher Reese, Grace Baptist Church – Faith & Community Nourishment Award

The evening will feature passed appetizers, live entertainment, a curated silent auction, and sweeping views of the Connecticut River and Hartford skyline at the elegant Hartford Marriott Downtown.

Come raise a glass with us as we celebrate 25 years of purpose, partnership, and progress—and support the next chapter of our work to create a more just and nourished Connecticut.

Frequently asked questions

I cannot attend. Can I donate to support End Hunger Connecticut!?

Yes! Your gift helps build the Full Shelves Community Café & Pantry, supports vital SNAP Call Center services, and fuels outreach for Summer Meals, which are at risk due to federal cuts. Every dollar helps Connecticut families access healthy, nutritious food.

What can I expect from the event experience?

Guests will enjoy an upscale cocktail reception with delicious passed appetizers, live music, and powerful storytelling. The evening will bring together leaders, changemakers, and supporters for a night of reflection, celebration, and shared commitment to ending hunger.

Will there be a silent auction?

Yes! Our silent auction will feature an exciting mix of exclusive items, experiences, and local gems. From art to luxury goods and gift certificates, it's the perfect opportunity to give back while bidding on something special to take home or gift to someone you love.

Is there a dress code?

Yes. Cocktail attire is encouraged. This is a special evening marking 25 years of impact, and we invite you to dress for a night of elegance, celebration, and community spirit as we honor those who have helped advance food justice across the state.

Will there be honorees?

Yes. We’ll honor Congresswomen Rosa DeLauro and Jahana Hayes, NBC’s Keisha Grant, Healing Meals CEO Sarah Leathers, Pastor Kristopher Reese, and advocate Michael Copeland for their leadership in food justice, health equity, and public service.

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Organized by

End Hunger Connecticut!

Founded in 2000, End Hunger Connecticut! (EHC!) is a statewide anti-hunger nonprofit in Connecticut dedicated to eliminating hunger and promoting healthy nutrition through outreach, public education, and legislative and administrative advocacy. By partnering with state and local officials, schools, and community-based organizations, EHC! enhances the visibility and coordination of federal food assistance programs crucial to any effort to improve food security while increasing both family well-being and the amount of federal funding available to the state. EHC! also engages in strategic outreach, capacity building, and provides technical assistance on food and nutrition programs.

$81.88