BEDS Plus Care's First Annual Rent Party Raises $60,000

BEDS Plus Care, a leader in reducing and ending homelessness in Southwest Suburban Cook County, hosted its first annual Rent Party fundraiser on Saturday, May 19th at the Katherine Legge Memorial Lodge in Hinsdale, Illinois. The event raised $60,000 for BEDS Plus Care's financial assistance programs, which directly support clients who are experiencing homelessness or imminent risk of homelessness.

"The best way to end homelessness is to stop it before it starts. We financially support individuals and families who are in danger of losing their homes or who have just lost their homes," said Tina Rounds, Executive Director of BEDS Plus Care. "We pay their rent, utility bills, security deposits, and move in costs, which frees them to focus on what has caused their crisis."

The concept for the event came from Depression Era New York City, where tenants struggling to pay rent would invite friends and neighbors to "rent parties." They hired local musicians, including some who would become blues, jazz, and boogie woogie legends. At the end of the night, they would "pass the hat" to raise the next month's rent from the crowd.

At BEDS Plus Care's take on the tradition, renowned wife and husband jazz duo MRT Jazz and saxophonist Dorian Martin provided the music; Taste of Home served appetizers and cocktails; volunteers ensured the night ran smoothly; and more than a dozen sponsors helped make it all possible.

"We captured the same spirit," said Ms. Rounds, "a community coming together to help people in immediate need."