Why Beignets?
Why a Festival?
“Through our journey with our son, we found a gap in programs for children on the autism spectrum, and we wanted to change that.”
– Sherwood Collins, Beignet Fest Founder
New Orleans is famous for its festivals, food, and flair—but for one New Orleans family, Beignet Fest is about more than indulgence. It’s about impact.
Their inspiration?
Their son, Liam.
Diagnosed with autism at age three, Liam opened their eyes to the challenges families face in finding quality programs and resources for children with developmental delays. The Collins family quickly realized that New Orleans was missing something vital: opportunities tailored to neurodiverse kids like Liam.
So, they took matters into their own hands. One beignet at a time.
What started as a simple idea—celebrating the beloved beignet—became something much bigger. The Beignet Fest Foundation was born, using the festival’s proceeds to fund grants for programs that support children with autism.
Our Impact
Autism affects more families than you might think—1 of every 31 children is diagnosed on the autism spectrum, making it more common than childhood cancer, juvenile diabetes, and pediatric AIDS combined. In Louisiana, autism is the most frequently cited diagnosis in Individualized Education Plans (IEPs) for students needing specialized support.
Today, Beignet Fest isn’t just about the sugar-dusted, deep-fried deliciousness (though, let’s be honest, that’s a big perk). Beignet Fest is about creating a community where every child has the chance to thrive. Through every bite, every beat, and every step taken at Beignet Fest, you’re helping to provide much-needed resources and support for children and families touched by autism.
Beignet Fest Foundation
We believe that every child, regardless of their abilities, deserves the chance to thrive. That’s why all proceeds from the festival benefit the Beignet Fest Foundation, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to raising awareness, providing resources, and funding programs for children with autism and developmental delays.
Grantmaking
The Beignet Fest Foundation awards grants to local nonprofit organizations that offer therapy, education, and enrichment programs—helping families access the support they need. We provide grants to programs that are designed to support children with diverse abilities and needs, giving every child an opportunity to learn, play, and thrive.
Benny’s Sensory Onsite Spaces
Designed to support individuals on the autism spectrum and those with sensory needs at New Orleans’ vibrant events, Benny’s S.O.S provides a calming, sensory-friendly space where visitors can take a break, reset, and rejoin the festivities. Open to the public and free of charge, Benny’s S.O.S ensures that everyone can fully participate in the city’s rich cultural celebrations in a more inclusive and welcoming way.
Camp Benny
Camp Benny is a summer camp in New Orleans, offering a sensory-friendly and structured environment for children on the autism spectrum when school is out. The camp features trained staff, interactive programming, and a high counselor-to-camper ratio to support social development and learning. In partnership with Kidcam Camps and the University of Holy Cross, Camp Benny offers families a fun and much-needed option for summer enrichment.
Tres Doux Krewe
A community-driven initiative of leading women in Greater New Orleans supporting children with autism and their families through the Beignet Fest Foundation, Tres Doux Krewe (TDK) members come together for unique events, fundraising efforts, and volunteer opportunities that help fund programs like Camp Benny and grants for local nonprofits.
By celebrating beignets, we’re also celebrating neurodiversity, inclusion, and the power of community. Join us in making a difference—one delicious bite at a time!
“Absolutely a new favorite food festival in the city! Super unique (and DELISH) creations from well-loved vendors, wonderful entertainment, and the best part – supporting such a worthy cause by dedicated, passionate organizers.”
-Festival Attendee
