Forest Hills Stadium concertgoers have raised more than $16,000 non-profit Queens Community House in the first month of the “Making Cents for Queens” initiative, which donates a portion of every beer and cocktail sold at the venue to the social services non-profit.
The initiative, launched for the 2026 concert season at the iconic Queens venue, donates 25 cents from every beer or cocktail sold at Forest Hills Stadium, with the intention of “transforming everyday purchases into meaningful investments in programs that strengthen communities.”
Funds raised through the initiative support a wide range of programs at Queens Community House, including youth workforce training, senior centers, food pantries, eviction prevention, immigration legal services and other resources that cater to more than 30,000 Queens residents each year.
Ben Thomases, CEO of Queens Community House, said it was an “incredible testament” to the partnership between the non-profit and Forest Hills Stadium that the initiative could raise $16,000 in its first month.
“Most people don’t think buying a drink at a concert can help a child succeed in school, deliver a meal to a homebound older adult, or give someone a place where they truly belong—but that’s exactly what is happening,” Thomases said in a statement. “Every concertgoer who purchases a beer or cocktail is investing in stronger neighborhoods and brighter futures for thousands of Queens residents. We’re deeply grateful to Forest Hills Stadium and everyone who has become part of this effort.”
Queens Community House will use a portion of the proceeds to Forest Hills Community Center’s food pantry, which is located near the stadium and serves almost 500 community members each week. Queens Community House said the number of weekly residents who use the pantry has almost doubled in the last 12 months, indicating increased financial pressure on local families.
The non-profit said the Making Cents for Queens initiative can help sustain the food pantry and other important services across the borough.
“We have seen a significant increase in the number of neighbors coming to the pantry for help,” said Tyronza Murray, Queens Community House’s Associate Executive Director for Older Adult Services.
“Support from partnerships like this helps us continue meeting the growing need in our community and ensures our neighbors know they do not have to face these challenges alone.”
The “Making Cents for Queens” initiative will continue throughout the remainder of Forest Hills Stadium’s 2026 concert season, including performances from Paul Simon, Sarah McLachlan and the All Things Go festival.
To view the full 2026 concert schedule or purchase tickets, click here.