Must! Charities’ Purpose event raises $2.5 million in Paso Robles
Local Harvest Fund to address food insecurity in county
– Purpose, an annual philanthropic event hosted by Must! Charities, raised nearly $2.5 million during its 2025 gathering at Epoch Estate Wines, bringing the event’s five-year fundraising total to more than $10 million.
The invitation-only event was attended by 150 guests and featured tables hosted by Paso Robles winemakers and winery owners. Guests traveled from across the country to participate.
The evening included wine service, a menu prepared by chef Sarah Glover, and an auction of items including custom dinners and international trips hosted by winemakers. The highest single auction lot sold for $172,000.
A Fund-a-Need segment raised $1.1 million for the SLO Food Bank. According to Must! Charities, 100 percent of those proceeds will support a five-year partnership with the food bank focused on providing fresh food to San Luis Obispo County residents. The initiative, called the Local Harvest Fund, aims to address food insecurity for the estimated 47,000 county residents who face challenges in accessing nutritious food.
“This partnership with Must! Charities anchors the foundation of our new Local Harvest Fund, activating the bounty of our local farmers to feed local families,” said Molly Kern, CEO of SLO Food Bank. “Purpose is an incredible testament to the power of our community’s care and unwavering belief that no one should go hungry.”
Becky Gray, CEO of Must! Charities, said, “Purpose proves what’s possible when a small but fiercely committed group comes together with shared vision and generous hearts.”
