FORT MYERS, Fla. (October 30, 2026) – SWFL Children’s Charities, Inc. proudly announces that its 2026 Wine & Women Summer Series raised $30,000 in support of pediatric healthcare initiatives at Golisano Children’s Hospital of Southwest Florida, with proceeds benefiting the hospital’s growing pediatric cardiology program.
Representatives of SWFL Children’s Charities, Inc. and Golisano Children’s Hospital of Southwest Florida celebrate the presentation of a $30,000 donation raised through the 2026 Wine & Women Summer Series to support the hospital’s pediatric cardiology program.
Co-chaired by Ellen Duke and Sara Levene, the series brought together more than 300 attendees for six exclusive wine and culinary experiences throughout Fort Myers and Naples. Featuring boutique winery partners and exceptional local restaurants, the summer series offered opportunities for women to connect, enjoy world-class wines and make a meaningful difference in the lives of children throughout Southwest Florida.
The series concluded with a special celebration on October 21, featuring a check presentation at Golisano Children’s Hospital of Southwest Florida, followed by a reception hosted by Mark Loren Designs. Guests had the opportunity to learn more about the hospital’s pediatric healthcare initiatives and the impact of their collective generosity.
“We are incredibly grateful to our Wine & Women attendees, winery and restaurant partners, and everyone who helped make this summer series such a success,” said Heidi Davis, Executive Director of SWFL Children’s Charities, Inc. “What began as an opportunity to bring women together over a shared love of wine has grown into something truly meaningful. Raising $30,000 for pediatric healthcare is a wonderful reflection of the generosity and compassion of our community.”
SWFL Children’s Charities, Inc. is a local nonprofit organization dedicated to saving children’s lives by supporting the region’s growing pediatric healthcare system. Through its annual signature fundraiser, the Southwest Florida Wine & Food Fest, the organization has donated more than $35 million since 2009 to advance critical pediatric healthcare initiatives, including pediatric oncology, behavioral and mental health, neurosurgery and other specialized services.
Celebrating its 18th year, the 2027 Southwest Florida Wine & Food Fest, themed Little Hearts, Big Dreams, will take place February 5–6, 2027. The weekend will feature exclusive Chef Vintner Dinners hosted at private luxury venues throughout the region on Friday, followed by the Grand Tasting and Live Auction on Saturday at Hyatt Regency Coconut Point Resort & Spa. The event will showcase celebrated chefs, exceptional cuisine and world-class wines, all in support of advancing pediatric healthcare for children throughout Southwest Florida.
PHOTO ATTACHED. Photo credit: Mark Schoenfelt Photography
Media Contacts:
Heidi Davis, APR, CPRC, SWFL Children’s Charities, Inc., Heidi@SWFLWineFest.org, 239.433.4260 or 239.634.0109 (cell)
