Pacific House Gala Raises $400k to Support Housing for Homeless

Pacific House hosted its 23rd Annual Gala at The Loading Dock in Stamford on October 10. Through the generosity of community supporters, sponsors and attendees, the event raised over $400,000 to help provide critical housing solutions for individuals and families experiencing homelessness in Fairfield County.

“This evening’s theme, “Building Futures: The Hands and Hearts Behind Every Home,” reflects the collaborative spirit that powers Pacific House and reminds us that every home we create is a step toward a brighter, more stable future for our residents”, said Pacific House President and CEO, Carmen Colón.

Based in Stamford, CT, with the mission to prevent and end homelessness, the organization operates an emergency shelter for men and young adults as well as 15 permanent supportive houses which provide housing for formerly homeless individuals and families throughout lower Fairfield County.

“The mission of Pacific House is to end homelessness in Fairfield County; this is not an easy task by any means, and I’m proud to report that we’ve done a lot to reduce the amount of unsheltered people in the state,” said Pacific House Board Chair, Justin Maccarone.

Pacific House honored the community partners who work tirelessly to make the Pacific House vision a reality. The 2024 honorees included:
• Elena Kalman, an architect and artist, who, for over 30 years, has supported Pacific House with designs that create dignified living spaces for those in need.
• Charles Connor of A. Emerson Construction, who has played a pivotal role in constructing many of the homes that provide stability and safety to Pacific House clients.
• Larry Kluetsch, a housing consultant who has helped create over 900 affordable housing units across Connecticut and continues to support Pacific House in their mission to end homelessness.
• Cathi Jenssen, a Pro Bono Advocate has offered her pro bono legal services to Pacific House, helping countless individuals secure the legal support they need to move forward and find stable housing.
• Edgehill Retirement Community, which has been a steadfast supporter of Pacific House for decades, contributing to the organization’s mission through donations, volunteerism, and community action.

The event also featured a three-part video series showcasing Pacific House’s mission and its impact, culminating in moving client testimonials and insights from key staff and partners. The evening highlighted the importance of affordable housing and the many hands that contribute to making these homes a reality.

Pacific House would like to thank the event’s sponsors, including Title Sponsors Orchard Farm Foundation, Vranos Family Foundation and an Anonymous Donor; Platinum Sponsors Justin and Marie Maccarone, The Ohnell Family Foundation, and Chris and Lauren Tate; Gold Sponsors Cingari Family Markets ShopRite, First County Bank, GenRe, NJM Insurance Group, Olympus Partners, Reckson, The Silver Family, Stamford Health, Tradition Energy, Bruce and Linda Koe, Jane Selden, Marie and Tom Metz; and Silver Sponsors A. Emerson Construction, Connecticut Community Bank, N.A., Joan Connor, Jim Duffy, The Finn Family Foundation, KeyBank, Leo P. Gallagher & Son Funeral Home, Nielsen's Florist & Garden Shop, Tito’s Handmade Vodka, Tzedakah House, LLC, and Viking Construction, Inc. as well as Media Sponsor: Stamford Magazine/Moffly Media.

To learn more about Pacific House, please visit: www.PacificHouse.org

Photo Credit: Big Picture Photography

About Pacific House
For nearly 40 years, Pacific House has been a leader in ending homelessness in Fairfield County. The organization operates an emergency shelter for men and young adults and provides permanent supportive housing for over 140 formerly homeless individuals and families in Stamford and Norwalk. Through housing development, supportive services, and community partnerships, Pacific House offers long-term solutions to help individuals rebuild their lives.
For more information, or to learn how you can get involved, visit www.pacifichouse.org.