Annual banana theme party raising funds for food pantries

ALBANY, N.Y. (NEWS10) - The second annual banana party fun-raiser took place on Sunday at the Lost and Found Bar and Kitchen in Albany. The mission behind the event stems from an ongoing desire of two friends to throw a banana theme party. This idea coincided with a passion they have for giving back to the community. 

For the second time, JC Colletti and Bridget Mcginley, chose to spend their birthdays fundraising for the Food Pantries of the Capital District.

"If we're having 100+ friends here, customers, and family; why not raise money for charity while we're at it, if we're going to be here having a great time," Mcginley said. "We call it partying for a purpose."

Those supporting the cause wore banana themed outfits, costumes, and jewelry. The event raised $5,000 last year, and the pair is hoping that they will surpass that number this year.

"It would be great if we could surpass $5,000," Mcginley said. "That would be amazing, and $6,000; maybe we should make the goal this year." "Yes, $6,000," Colletti said.

Sarah Gabler, an employee at the bar, was dressed for the occasion in a barrel of monkey earrings and also threw her support behind working to feed the nearly 60 pantries within the Capital District.

"I think that it's absolutely amazing," Gabler said. "I mean have a party and donate it to a good cause, especially when there is a lot of starving people. I think it's great."

JC and Bridget said people really lean into the banana theme, which in turn gives them support. The money gets raised through a raffle with items given to the cause from surrounding businesses and those in the service industry.

"So many businesses around the Capital Region were so generous in what they donate to help us out," Colletti said. "So, we thank every single person who helped us out with that."

Funds were also raised through bar sales, selling T-shirts, and donations. Sarah's son Colden, made sure he was on theme, and loved it.

"Its very banana-y," Colden said. "I really like it. I know this is going to be a fun party."

The event is co-sponsored by Remarkable Liquids, Druthers Brewing, The Ballonary, Season`s Skate Shop, and Rage Cakes Albany. The duo hopes to throw the party again next year.