HABcore's Gala Raises Critical Funds for Affordable, Supportive Housing

HABcore Inc., the Jersey Shore’s largest provider of permanent, supportive housing, recently hosted its annual gala at Park Loft in Oceanport, raising $225,000 for those experiencing homelessness and housing insecurity in Monmouth and Ocean counties.

The Homes for the Brave Gala, which celebrated courage and resilience after homelessness, highlighted the collective struggles and successes of the more than 1,000 formerly homeless families, veterans and individuals with special needs that HABcore serves.

“As we enter our 38th year of serving Jersey Shore residents, we cannot overstate the need for more affordable and supportive housing,” HABcore CEO Steve Heisman said. “The stories shared at our gala remind us that homelessness can happen to anyone, but they also showed the possible impact when a community rallies around people who need a helping hand. Together, we are helping our neighbors rebuild their lives and empowering their move toward lasting independence.”

Honoring Community Leaders

HABcore honored Abe and Linda Littenberg of Lincroft with its Visionary Leadership Award in recognition of their longstanding philanthropy and exceptional leadership in strengthening the community.

State Sen. Vin Gopal received the Excellence in Public Service Award for his unwavering advocacy for affordable housing and HABcore’s supportive services.

HABcore’s Board Chair Cathy Pugliese-Sivo presented Livette Burgos of Freehold Township, a HABcore resident and single mother, with the Spirit of Hope Award for her inspiring journey from homelessness to stable housing, displaying immeasurable determination and perseverance along the way. The Spirit of Hope Award comes with a rental stipend, funded by the Sivo Family.

Participants Share their Journey through Multimedia Experiences

Throughout the evening, guests learned about HABcore's supportive housing programs and saw how the organization changes lives for individuals and families. Several featured elements highlighted participant experiences:

• The Stories of Courage visual gallery shared participant journeys and personal milestones.

• The new HABcore Mission in Motion video showcased the organization’s work and impact.

• HABcore residents with special needs created artwork through therapeutic arts programs offered in partnership with Monmouth Arts, the Basie Center for the Arts, Two River Theater Company and Project Write Now.

The gala also featured video interviews of program participants, a festive photo booth, a silent auction and a live appeal that supported HABcore's mission to end homelessness and create lasting housing stability.

The Gala Committee and staff acknowledge the support of our sponsors and underwriters:

Signature Sponsors:

• Leonardo Jewelers

• Abe and Linda Littenberg

Community Sponsors:

• Cathy and Tom Sivo

• Smolin, Lupin & Co., LLC

• Stillwell-Hansen

• Stone Foundation of New Jersey

• Valley Bank

Event Sponsors:

• Joanna and Tim Connelly

• Eisai

• Lomurro Law

• Chryssa Yaccarino, Esq. & Hon. Ronald L. Reisner, J.S.C.

• Sen. Vin Gopal

Event underwriting included: Stories of Courage -The Harbison Family; Video Experience - Janie and George Schildge; Mobile Bidding - Cathy and Tom Sivo; Guest Gifts - Robin and John Klein; Champagne Toast - Magda and James Muka; Event Program - Joanna and Tim Connelly, Marianne and Robert Ficarra, and Newport Capital Group; Event Photography - Michelle Piazza and Holman Frenia Allison, P.C./HFA and Cocktail Hour Music - Deborah Straus Eisenstein.

About HABcore
HABcore delivers affordable housing and supportive services to vulnerable families, veterans and individuals with special needs. We help those experiencing homelessness or housing insecurity move from crisis to stability, fostering independence and a better quality of life. To learn more visit www.habcore.org and view the HABCore Gala photo gallery