September 4, 2025
Central New York’s biggest food and music festival welcomed an estimated 200,000 people over two days in June. While the festival welcomed large crowds, it also raised $24,141.74 for local charities.
Two checks were presented on Wednesday, September 3rd, within Clinton Square where the festival was held. A check for $12,070.87 was presented to David’s Refuge. Another check for $12,070.87 was presented to Ronald McDonald House Charities of Central New York. The money collected for the two charities was a joint effort between two Taste of Syracuse sponsors, The Summit Federal Credit Union and Tops Friendly Markets.
“Being a caregiver can be incredibly rewarding, but it also comes with physical, emotional, and financial challenges. We are thrilled that we were able to highlight the work of these two organizations that do so much to support families and caregivers in Central New York,” said Twanda Christensen, Vice President of Marketing and Community Engagement for The Summit Federal Credit Union.
“Every year, we are overwhelmed by the generosity of our community and grateful for their willingness to give back to those in need. Being able to shine a light on these two amazing organizations, who do so much for our neighbors each and every day, while helping to raise much-needed funds for their cause, truly embodies our Neighbors Helping Neighbors philosophy,” said Courtney Mailhot, Community Relations Manager of Tops Friendly Markets.
“We can’t thank our partners enough for their tremendous support of the festival and for their generosity in regard to giving back to local charities,” said Galaxy Events Chief Operating Officer Carrie Wojtaszek. “We’re already looking forward to next year!”
The Summit Federal Credit Union has been the title sponsor of this event since 2017 and has helped to raise nearly $150,000 for Central New York non-profit organizations including ARC of Onondaga; ClearPath for Veterans; Elmcrest Children’s Center; Griffin’s Guardians; Make-A-Wish Central New York; Paige’s Butterfly Run; PEACE, Inc. Big Brothers Big Sisters of Onondaga County; and Vera House.