On Saturday, June 28, members of the community gathered at Ancient City Farmstead in St. Augustine for the first-ever Keys of Hope Gala.
The event was not only meant to celebrate the sixth anniversary of Port in the Storm Homeless Youth Center, but also to raise funds necessary for the well-being of the facility and the youth that it supports.
“It really is an extraordinary story every day,” said Ed Dwyer, board chair with the organization. “We have 24 beds, but often we have over 30 to 32 kids in the facility.”
Port in the Storm Homeless Youth Center, a branch of St. Francis House, was launched in 2017 to support homeless youth in St. Johns County. Their current facilities are equipped with 24 beds, but the organization shelters an average of 30-35 youth every day.
Two months post-event, the organization revealed that the Keys of Hope gala raised more than $55,000 to support the homeless youth in the community. From that final number, the organization said that more than $10,000 came from both the silent and live auctions, $30,000 came from a generous donation from Bronx House Pizza and the remaining amount came from donations and ticket sales.
Bronx House Pizza, one of the gala’s sponsors, a successful Italian-American chain with roots in Florida, provided the evening’s light bites and buffet-style meal. Guests were also treated to music, cocktails, a photo booth and an opportunity to leave a message of hope for kids at the shelter.
“We are so lucky to live in St. Johns County,” said Joy Case, director of development, “a very caring, giving community that generously supports those who need it most with their time, talent, and treasure.”
“We’re doing this for the greater good,” said Bruno DiFabio, co-owner and founding member of Bronx House Pizza. “Everyone here can make a difference and I’m so proud that people have already asked me how.”
