Suncoast Charities for Children has announced the distribution of $123,423 to support children, teens and adults with special needs in the Sarasota community. 

The largest distribution made was $85,000 to the Suncoast Foundation in support of necessary repairs and capital improvements for Children First (Venice Campus) and The Florida Center for Early Childhood (Sarasota and North Port Campus).

Additional donations, totaling $38,423, were also allocated to The Haven, The Florida Center for Early Childhood, Loveland Center, Sarasota County Special Olympics, and Children First in support of various programs and services provided by these agencies. The program and service areas supported include children battling hunger, health and wellness programs for those with physical and mental disabilities, equipment for remote classroom learning, early education tools for children with intense behavioral needs, hygiene kits and classroom shoes for preschool children, neuro intervention services, and theatre/music/culinary program supplies for physically and mentally disabled individuals.

Suncoast Charities for Children organizes the annual Thunder By The Bay Music and Motorcycle Festival and the Suncoast Summer Fest.  Net revenue raised from both Festivals, in addition to a few smaller events held during the 2020-2021 fiscal year, made these donations possible.