Baked goods bring the community together. That’s what Island baker Julia Blanter believes and how the first annual Great Martha’s Vineyard Bake-Off was born.

Participating bakeries, cafes and eateries will be offering special baked goods throughout the weekend of Nov. 23 and Nov. 24.Proceeds will be donated to Friends of Family Planning Martha’s Vineyard, the Family Resource Center at MV Community Services, and the Community Action Committee of Cape Cod & Islands to support local immigration services.

The idea for the event began after the general election.

“It really came out from waking up on the Wednesday after the election and just feeling really upset and my thoughts just went to our vulnerable communities especially our migrant and queer communities and I thought about how this election must be affecting them,” she said. “I was just so angry and wanted to channel my energy into something and food is what I know and love.”

Participating locations include Morning Glory Farm, Orange Peel Bakery, Catboat Coffee, Pie Chicks and the Scottish Bakehouse. The Pawnee House and S&S Kitchenette will also be offering afternoon tea. In total, there are over 20 eateries on the Island participating.

The speed at which everyone joined in was surprising and humbling, Ms. Blanter said.

“That’s what overwhelmed me, just showing me this community really does put their money where their mouth is,” she said. “Everyone is all in.”

Ms. Blanter hopes the event becomes an annual occurrence.

“It’s a fundraiser but to also show the community that we have your back and there are safe spaces and we’re here to connect with each other,” she said.

A passport designed by Islander Maribeth Macaisa will be available at all the locations where stamps can be collected across the Island. On the passport will also be a list of mental health and community service resources.

Ms. Blanter said she is excited to be giving back at an important time of the year.

“My mission is twofold: an opportunity to connect and support each other but also support the services that support us,” she said. “We need those services. We need donations to keep those services thriving. My hope [for this event] also is that it’s a reminder to check on your friends and neighbors. My dream is [for people] to pick up a few extra pastries to give them to your neighbors.”