Pirates Hideaway to host inaugural charity event to benefit hungry kids

Mark your calendars, as the “PiratesFORKids” fundraiser (Pirates for Kids), will set sail on Tuesday, Aug. 18, from 4 to 8 p.m. at Pirates Hideaway in Eagle River.

Opening the doors of the popular pirate-themed attraction located on the Eagle River Chain of Lakes, this family-friendly destination will share loot raised that day with Feed Our Rural Kids (FORK) to help provide food for children in food-insecure homes.

During the PiratesFORKids event, seats on the famous pirate ship cruise with Captain Steve will be $25 per person with all proceeds to benefit FORK. A percentage of food and drink sales also will be donated to the nonprofit organization. Pirates Hideaway offers handmade wood-fired pizzas, a tiki bar, ice cream, lawn games and a gift shop on the grounds.
First Mate Stevo Strauss explained his family’s decision to host the first ever Pirates for Kids fundraiser. “This community has stood with our family over these last 22 years in business. We now feel that we can show our gratitude by giving back to that community,” Strauss said.

The decision to partner with a group like FORK came easy to the Strauss family.

“FORK is a well-respected local charity. But it is their focus on the welfare of our area’s kids that makes them a great fit for our entire Pirates Hideaway crew, because every self-respecting pirate believes that the community’s children are the real treasure,” Strauss said.
Pirates Hideaway also will host three well-known local musicians — Bret and Frisk, and Scott Kirby — during the event to entertain attendees from 4 to 8 p.m.

“These are three of the best recognized musicians in the Northwoods,” added Strauss. “Each of them have been long-time supporters of FORK.”

In addition to ticket and food sales going to benefit FORK, representatives of the nonprofit also will be on site throughout the afternoon selling brats and hot dogs for $5 to raise funds. Raffle tickets also will be on sale for guests to win baskets donated by local artists and retailers. All proceeds will go toward funding FORK programs.

FORK’s mission is to provide nutritional support to children from food insecure homes across Vilas and Oneida counties. It fulfills that mission through four free food programs for children within the Northland Pines, Three Lakes and Phelps school districts.

In addition, the Family Food Helpline, a partnership with the Vilas and Oneida County Departments of Human Services, provides a food security resource across both counties for residents of all ages. Additionally, through its Legacy Fund, FORK provides financial support to other nonprofit organizations who share its mission of feeding kids.

“This is Pirates Hideaway’s chance to make a difference in the lives of area kids. So, my family and I invite you to join us on Aug. 18 at the first PiratesFORKids fundraiser,” Strauss said.

Seats on the pirate ship cruises are limited so early registration is encouraged. To reserve a spot, visit eagleriverpirates.com, scroll the calendar into August and click on your desired time at PiratesFORKids event.

Pirates Hideaway is located at 1998 Highway 45 N in Eagle River.

Feed Our Rural Kids is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. To learn more about FORK, visit feedourruralkids.org.