by Eleni Sinnis
Nantucket is known for beautiful gardens and window boxes and for its philanthropy. On Thursday, June 22, a charity auction offer many chances to combine both when Blooming Bids for Fairwinds is held at Bartlett’s Farm. Now in it’s 23rd year this annual event auctions artfully one-of-a-kind decorated designer garden planters and window boxes created and donated by our island’s top landscapers, nurseries, florists, and gardeners to benefit Nantucket’s counseling center.
The auction, both in-person and online, begins at noon and continues until 7 pm. All are welcome to drop by Bartlett’s Farm any time to place a bid or to make a donation. The day culminates with a celebration of the 61st year of Fairwinds from 5 to 7 pm. Ticketholders to this evening event can enjoy summer farm-to-table hors d’oeuvres, beer & wine, fresh new “mocktails,” and music to thank generous sponsors & donors. Tickets are available at fairwindscenter.org.
Every dollar raised at Blooming Bids helps Fairwinds, Nantucket’s Counseling Center, provide access to essential and compassionate mental health services. Since 1962, Fairwinds has provided critical mental health services for children, adults, and seniors regardless of financial or insurance status. The oldest and largest non-profit mental health and substance abuse agency and counseling center on-island, Fairwinds has been designated the “Community Behavioral Health Center for Nantucket” by the State of Massachusetts. This year is especially exciting for Fairwinds: in collaboration with Nantucket Cottage Hospital and other island partners, Fairwinds has launched a new model of rural behavioral health care that includes critical 24-hour crisis management.
Fairwinds serves more than 1,000 individuals and families annually. The impact on the Nantucket community of the services Fairwinds offers cannot be understated: the organization serves as a safe haven and is an invaluable resource for island residents who would otherwise have to travel to the mainland for help.
Stop by Bartlett’s Farm on Thursday during the day to see the beautiful blooms and to bid on your favorites. If you are unable to make it to either the in person or online auction, you can always donate. To donate to Fairwinds head to fairwindscenter.org, you’ll find a donations link on the home page.
