News

July 6, 2021 (BOSTON) – After holding a virtual event in 2020, GLBTQ Legal Advocates & Defenders (GLAD) will celebrate 40 years of its annual Summer Party with a return to the Pilgrim Monument and Provincetown Museum on Saturday, July 24.

This year’s event will honor Soup Kitchen In Provincetown (SKIP) for their critical service to community members facing food insecurity throughout the pandemic. Celebrity emcee Varla Jean Merman will be back to preside over the party, which will include both a live and online silent auction.

“After such a challenging year, it is wonderful to be able to gather together again in Provincetown for this year’s Summer Party,” said Janson Wu, GLAD’s Executive Director. “We are thrilled and humbled to honor an organization that has done so much to meet the fundamental needs of the Provincetown community – from meals to assistance with housing and healthcare – both this year and over its nearly 30-year history. During the pandemic, when looking after one another became more critical than ever, SKIP met the need and provided a vital service to Outer Cape residents.”

Established in 1992, SKIP provides a hot, nourishing lunch to Outer Cape Cod residents in need or seeking community during the long, wintertime months. The lack of proper nutrition is a serious problem for many in the area, affecting both seniors on fixed incomes, and workers facing seasonal unemployment caused by the tourist economy. In addition to meals, SKIP offers homeless-prevention assistance, nutrition counseling and health monitoring. The organization expanded its services to include drive-through and pick-up options to continue meeting the needs of the community throughout the pandemic.

“Our community was hit hard by the pandemic,” said SKIP Board Chair Philip Franchini. “The SKIP team rose to the challenge and continued to prepare daily meals, with extra on Fridays to help our guests get through the weekends. We put a wide range of safety protocols in place, and we distributed our meals outdoors, placing them in car trunks or handing them to those who arrived by bike or on foot.”

“There’s a nice synergy in this honor,” Franchini added. “Just like GLAD, SKIP has been about diversity and inclusion since our founding in 1992. We are open to all and never charge a cent.”

GLAD’s 40th annual Summer Party will take place Saturday, July 24 from 4:00 pm – 7:00 pm at the Pilgrim Monument at 1 High Pole Hill Road in Provincetown. Gilead Sciences, Inc. is the 2021 Summer Party High Tide sponsor.

The popular event includes spectacular views, an open bar, and delicious food. Children are welcome to attend at no charge and fun kids’ activities will be provided. The fabulous Varla Jean Merman will host an exciting live auction featuring custom art, travel packages, engaging family experiences, and more. For those who can’t make it to Provincetown for the party, GLAD is also hosting an online silent auction to allow guests to participate in the fun from anywhere.

In preparation for the Summer Party, GLAD is following all state and local public health guidance and taking precautions to ensure the event is a safe and fun experience for all. Learn more about the event safety precautions.

Get tickets and learn more about the event.