Pictured: Supporters of Baby Basics of Sarasota County, Inc. enjoyed light bites and a selection of wines at Farfelu Wine and Cheese Cafe's Corks 4 a Cause event last month. Photo by Barbie Heit.

Farfelu Wine and Cheese Cafe, a cozy spot in Venice offering a selection of wines from around the globe, paired with imported meats, cheeses, flatbreads and curated small plates, is giving back to the community through its Corks 4 a Cause events.

Owner Carmel Stephano, who took ownership of Farfelu in July 2023, hosts these fundraising events to benefit various nonprofit organizations. Volunteer bartenders from these organizations help run the bar, bringing along family, friends and supporters. At the close of each event, 5% of all sales are donated to the nonprofit. “We try to host these events monthly,” Stephano shares, though she notes that lately, they’ve been occurring almost weekly. “So far, we’ve worked with around eight or nine different charities, and the response has been incredible.” Earlier this year, Farfelu hosted an event to support the victims of the California Wildfires, raising $2,265 for Red Cross efforts.

On Wednesday, March 26, the cafe hosted a benefit event to support Baby Basics of Sarasota County, an all-volunteer nonprofit that provides diapers, wipes and kindness to hardworking, low-income families who do not receive government assistance. The organization also promotes early literacy through its partnership with the Library Foundation for Sarasota County. Many guests gathered to enjoy a glass (or bottle) of wine, delicious bites and great company, knowing that all tips and a portion of the evening’s proceeds would directly support local families in need. At the end of the evening, $2,950 was raised, including $1500 in donations.

Liz Bond, a board member of Baby Basics, expressed gratitude for the event’s success. “Thank you, Carmel Stephano–and the patrons who attended–for supporting Baby Basics of Sarasota County, Inc. with the Corks 4 a Cause event. We truly appreciate you!”

Farfelu Wine & Cheese, 266 Tamiami Trail, Venice, 941-480-1866

Pictured: Supporters of Baby Basics of Sarasota County, Inc. enjoyed light bites and a selection of wines at Farfelu Wine and Cheese Cafe's Corks 4 a Cause event last month. Photo by Barbie Heit.