Rooted in Community: Wine in the Warehouse Inspires Growth and Giving

The sold-out 2024 Wine in the Warehouse event brought together the vibrant spirit of St. Croix, blending fine wine, exquisite cuisine, and a profound sense of purpose. Held annually, this fundraiser by the St. Croix Foundation for Community Development (St. Croix Foundation) not only delights attendees but serves as a cornerstone for the community’s development and sustainability efforts.

This year’s theme, “Rooted,” celebrated commitment to the Virgin Islands—its people, culture, and future. At the heart of the evening was Chef Digby Stridiron, a son of the soil whose culinary artistry has earned him international acclaim. Chef Stridiron embodies the essence of “rooted” as a role model for young chefs, showing the power of staying connected to one’s heritage while achieving global success.

The St. Croix Foundation, founded 34 years ago after Hurricane Hugo, has been a driving force in revitalizing the island. From its early “scrape and paint” programs that rejuvenated downtown Christiansted to its role as a 501(c)(3) umbrella organization supporting over 250 nonprofits and initiatives, the Foundation is woven into the fabric of the territory.

Organizations like the VI Good Food Coalition, Boys and Girls Club, and Music in Motion started under the Foundation’s guidance. Unlike endowed nonprofits, the Foundation relies on events like Wine in the Warehouse to generate operating funds and continue its critical work.

Proceeds from this year’s Wine in the Warehouse will directly support the Foundation’s Kids Count initiative, a comprehensive annual data collection effort essential for policymakers and nonprofits. This data, used by government agencies to secure grant funding, is pivotal in shaping programs and policies for the Virgin Islands. In addition to Kids Count, funds will cover operational costs, ensuring the Foundation can maintain its impact across the territory.

Wine in the Warehouse has its roots in a dream to build the Alexander Theatre, a state-of-the-art performing arts space in the heart of Christiansted. The theatre will elevate the arts in the territory and will double as the largest disaster shelter and safe room in the Virgin Islands—a dual-purpose facility critical for both cultural and emergency needs.

The Foundation plans to break ground on this transformative project next year, fulfilling a vision many years in the making.

This year’s event showcased an unforgettable evening of culinary delights paired with expertly selected wines. Chef Stridiron curated a menu that honored the island’s culinary heritage while introducing bold, innovative flavors. Beyond the food and drink, the event highlighted the power of community—the coming together of locals and supporters to uplift the territory.

Deanna James, President of the St. Croix Foundation, reflected on the significance of the event:
“Wine in the Warehouse is more than a fundraiser; it’s a celebration of who we are as a community. This year’s theme, ‘Rooted,’ reminds us of our commitment to this place and these people.

As the night ended, attendees left inspired, knowing their contributions would support meaningful change. Wine in the Warehouse continues to be a beacon of hope and progress, showcasing the resilience and ingenuity of the Virgin Islands community.

See the video below for an exclusive interview with Deanna James, President and CEO of the St. Croix Foundation, conducted by Diondra Setorie of Yellow Cedar Media, for deeper insights into the Foundation’s mission and the impact of events like Wine in the Warehouse.

Stay tuned for next year’s Wine in the Warehouse, where the Foundation will continue its legacy of excellence while remaining deeply rooted in its mission to serve the Virgin Islands.