The community came through Thursday for an organization that continues to come through for them.
The Samaritan House, which has had to amplify its services during the COVID-19 crisis to meet growing demand from local residents in need, met its fundraising goal of $280,000 to support its Fund A Need program at its Main Event fundraising gala.
While many nonprofits have had to cancel fundraising events during the shelter-in-place order, the Samaritan House opted to go virtual to raise critical funds. Their call was answered.
Carole Middelton, a presenting sponsor of the gala, started the night off with an opening donation of $25,000, followed by a matching donations by Gilliad Sciences and Sutter Health. The Bohannon Foundation then came through with the night’s largest donation of the night, $100,000, helping Samaritan House reach their goal.
David Bohannon said all have been tested in these challenging times, but added “no one has had to endure more than those serviced by Samaritan House.”
“The Bohannon Family has been engaged with the San Mateo community for more than 80 years,” Bohannon added. “Our roots, our homes and our business center around this place. As longtime supporters of their amazing work caring for those in need, we are honored to be able to assist the Samaritan House in meeting the challenges of this time.”
Diane Dwyer, former KTVU and NBC Bay Area news anchor, emceed the Samaritan House gala while Franco Finn, local hype man of the Golden State Warriors, served as auctioneer. Auctioned items included a long weekend getaway in Palm Springs, a congressional experience with Jackie Speier, and a vacation in paradise in Kihei, Maui. Each item went for almost $5,000.
Samaritan House has battling poverty in San Mateo County for over 45 years. The nonprofit organization provides food, shelter, housing, healthcare, personalized case management and much more to more than 14,000 San Mateo County residents in need, including families, seniors, veterans, homeless adults and individuals living with a disability.
Photo: Franco Finn, local hype man of the Golden State Warriors
