TAMPA, Fla. – October 9, 2025 – The annual Red Cross Angels Silver Coffee will honor the founder of the women's auxiliary of the Tampa Bay Chapter of the American Red Cross.

In 1981, Beverly Austin created the organization, and in 1982, she hosted the first Silver Coffee in her South Tampa home, where 200 women became charter members. That established the coffee as a signature fundraiser, which benefits the Red Cross Service to Armed Forces division.

This year’s coffee is from 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. on Wednesday, Oct. 29 at a lovely home in South Tampa. Delicious finger foods, including tea sandwiches, mini scones, tarragon chicken croissants, and other delectable sweets and savories, will be provided by Sally Cook of Cook's Kitchen.

“It’s going to be a fantastic event, and we hope to raise much-needed funds to support our troops and veterans, especially considering Tampa Bay's connection to MacDill Air Force Base,’ said Leslie Jennewein, president of the Angels.

The lovely, appointed home has a stunning view of the Palma Ceia Golf & Country Club course.

Past presidents will serve punch and coffee from a Silver Coffee service set, given as a thank-you gift to the organization from the military officers stationed at MacDill.

In addition to Austin, who is the event’s honorary chair, other long-time members serve on the honorary committee. They are Amy Guagliardo (Austin’s daughter), Glenda Barlow, Sally Hill, Pauline Holovak, Mary Jane Martinez and Brenda Schwarzkopf.

Angels and representatives of the Red Cross organization will greet and mingle with guests at the event. Membership information will also be available.

The minimum donation is $50 per attendee, with various sponsorship options also available. To receive more information, email redcrossangels@gmail.com.