The Waverly’s gearing up for its 4th Annual Night of Empowerment on October 17, 2026, starting at 5:00 p.m. It’s not just any fundraiser. This event’s become a cornerstone for the Englewood community. Locals, businesses, and supporters all come together, raising money that goes straight to St. David’s Jubilee Center, especially the food pantry and programs that help people access basic services.
Let’s talk about the Jubilee Center and the important work they do for the community. It’s a ministry run by St. David’s Episcopal Church, founded in 2008 by Pat Knox, and after sixteen years, it’s still going strong, offering hope for folks right in Englewood.
SDJC’s mission is to empower the poor and the oppressed. The team’s out there delivering direct help: food, clothing, and more. The center operates as St. David’s Episcopal Church’s outreach ministry, serving families, individuals, and people without homes throughout the greater Englewood area.
Here’s what the Jubilee Center provides:
Food Pantry: Residents from both Charlotte and Sarasota counties can pick up food, non-perishables, fresh produce, frozen meat, every other week. If you’re unhoused, you can drop in weekly. They also hand out toiletries, hygiene products, and pet food when they have it.
Pat’s Kindness Closet: Free clothing and shoes.
Financial Aid: Short-term help with utility bills like FPL and the Englewood Water District, and referrals to other agencies.
Backpack Ministry: Working with Community Presbyterian, they fill backpacks with kid-friendly, nutritious food for local students every two weeks during summer break.
Money raised at The Night of Empowerment goes directly into these outreach programs, making a real difference for Englewood families. Laura Roy Fink from St. David’s Jubilee Center summed it up well: “The Night of Empowerment reflects the heart of Englewood, neighbors helping neighbors. We’re grateful to The Waverly for keeping this tradition alive and making our work possible.”
If you want to sponsor, or reserve your spot at the event, just call The Waverly at 941-475-3500.
