Home Again receives $11,000 from tourism industry

Historic City News has learned that this year, the local tourism industry has contributed a total of $11,000 to Home Again St Johns to help them promote and foster support to resolve issues related to homelessness in St Johns County; compassionately and effectively.

Earlier this year, the St Augustine, Ponte Vedra and the Beaches Visitors and Convention Bureau provided private sector funding to the non-profit organization in the amount of $5,000. The “Top Chef Cook-Off”, the culmination of the Flavors of Florida’s Historic Coast events in October, raised an additional $6,000 donation.

“Flavors was marketed and promoted by the Visitors and Convention Bureau, participating restaurants, sponsors and the Renaissance World Golf Resort without the use of any bed tax dollars,” Communications Manager Barbara Golden told Historic City News reporters. “Flavors of Florida’s Historic Coast” is a month-long dining promotion that included 22 local restaurants offering price-fixed menus showcasing their chef’s heritage inspired dishes, Golden said.

The tasting event raised funds for the area’s homeless initiative, along with bestowing the title of “Flavors Top Chef” to Brett Smith, Sawgrass Marriott Golf Resort and Spa, and awarding the “Flavors People’s Choice Award” to Sawgrass Marriott’s signature restaurant, Vernon’s. The “Top Chef Cook Off” was held at Renaissance World Golf Resort and was the highlight of the Flavors dining season.