Funds raised at 10th annual Port Moody Ribfest will focus on food security programs

Port Moody’s 10th annual Ribfest has a specific fundraising focus: combating local food insecurity.

The event remains the Rotary Club of Port Moody’s biggest fundraiser event, bringing in roughly $1 million since it was founded in 2015.

“It’s absolutely our number one project. . . . It’s grown every year,” said Glen Brown, rotary member. “It’s possible that this event could raise $200,000 or more for our community.”

Unlike previous years, funds raised through the Rotary’s 50-50 lottery will be distributed for food security programs, with all net proceeds being divided between the Share Food Bank and the Rotary Starfish program.

The Share Food Bank provides direct food support to hundreds of individuals and families each week in the Tri-Cities, while the Starfish program distributes foods to families in need through the school district.

“That’s a pretty big deal for us, just to have that sharper focus and designated beneficiaries,” Brown said. “We want to attract members and support for our projects and the work that we do.”

The Rotary has set a goal of raising $240,000 for the 50-50 jackpot, of which $100,000 would be delivered for the programs.

Brown noted that donations are also key to the Rotary’s fundraising success. 

While many people assume the rotary is raking in money off the ribs, he said it’s actually a very small portion of its revenue. Beer sales and donations are where the bulk of the fundraising opportunity is found, Brown said.

Last year, the Rotary received about $65,000 in donations at the front gate alone, and they hope to bring in $100,000 in 2025, Brown said, adding the live music and the ribs are what draws some 50,000 visitors each year.

There will be seven ribbers set up at the festival this year, including a new Ontario crew called Jack the Ribber. Another new addition this year includes an all-you-can-eat section. At least one food truck will be on site providing vegetarian options.

The event is scheduled to take place from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. on July 18 to 20, at Rocky Point Park, and features a park-wide beer garden.

Water refilling stations, spray stations and tents will be set up to help patrons cool down in the heat.

Brown said Ribfest depends on a large cadre of 400 to 500 volunteers, and the Rotary is still actively recruiting volunteers on its website.

Founded in 1999, the Rotary Club of Port Moody is made up of around 40 local members who hold community events to raise money for mainly local initiatives.  Besides Ribfest, other signature events include Search for the Perfect Pint beer tasting fundraiser, and the Shred-A-Thon at city hall.