The Friends of Charities Foundation, established under the Patronage of His Excellency the Governor-General of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Sir Stanley John, GCMG, KC, is preparing to host its signature fundraising event, The People’s Garden Gala, on Sunday, October 25, 2026, at the Government House Gardens in Kingstown.
The Friends of Charities Foundation was established on 7 May 2026, following an inaugural planning meeting convened and presided over by His Excellency the Governor-General at Government House. The Foundation brings together a group of civic-minded Vincentians committed to service and to making a meaningful difference in the lives of vulnerable persons throughout Saint Vincent and the Grenadines.
Operating as a voluntary charitable body under the vice-regal patronage of the Governor-General, the Foundation’s primary purpose is to raise funds and secure resources in support of some of the most vulnerable and marginalized groups of persons within Vincentian society.
Among the Foundation’s confirmed initial beneficiaries are the Lewis Punnett Home (Home for the Aged and Indigent), Liberty Lodge Boys’ Training Centre, Thompson Home, Young Women’s Christian Association (YWCA), St. Benedict Day Nursery, registered organizations supporting persons with disabilities, as well as other charitable institutions which may be approved by the Foundation’s Executive Committee.
Beyond fundraising, the Foundation seeks to increase public awareness of social development initiatives, encourage national unity and volunteerism, develop long-term relationships with donors and corporate partners, and establish a sustainable annual platform through which Vincentians can come together in support of charitable causes.
THE PEOPLE’S GARDEN GALA
That spirit of compassion and national service will be brought to life through The People’s Garden Gala, to be held on Sunday, October 25, 2026, from 3:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at the Government House Gardens.
The Gala is being designed as an elegant but inclusive national charity event, bringing together people from across Vincentian society in an atmosphere of entertainment, fellowship and giving.
The event reflects an important principle behind the Foundation: charity and service should bring people together. The People’s Garden Gala is therefore intended to provide an opportunity for Vincentians from different backgrounds to unite around the common purpose of helping those in need.
Guests can look forward to an afternoon of live entertainment featuring an impressive lineup of Vincentian talent, including Fya Empress, Hance John, Bongo Prime, veteran calypsonian The Vibrating Scates, Whizzy, violinist Darron Andrews and pannist Saeed Bowman.
Tickets for the Gala are priced at EC$300 per person, with food and drinks all-inclusive.
As an added part of the experience, guests will also have an opportunity to enjoy a special tour of Government House from 2:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m., ahead of the official start of the Gala, providing an opportunity to learn more about the history and heritage associated with Government House.
Through The People’s Garden Gala, the Friends of Charities Foundation hopes not only to raise much-needed financial support, but also to encourage a broader culture of giving, volunteerism, partnership and social responsibility throughout Saint Vincent and the Grenadines.
The Foundation is also seeking to strengthen partnerships among civil society, the private sector, charitable organizations, donors and other stakeholders, recognizing that lasting social development requires the participation of the wider community.
The Friends of Charities Foundation extends its appreciation to the organizations, businesses, individuals, performers, volunteers and other partners who have already committed their support to the initiative.
Further information regarding ticket sales and authorized ticket outlets will be announced shortly through the Friends of Charities Foundation’s official media and social media platforms.
The People’s Garden Gala represents the beginning of what the Foundation hopes will become a sustainable annual fundraising platform dedicated to supporting worthy causes and strengthening the spirit of service within Saint Vincent and the Grenadines.
EVENT AT A GLANCE
Event: The People’s Garden Gala
Date: Sunday, October 25, 2026
Venue: Government House Gardens, Kingstown
Gala: 3:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.
Government House Tour: 2:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m.
Tickets: EC$300 | Food & Drinks All-Inclusive
