Project Renewal Raises Over $1.6 Million for Homeless Services at Annual Benefit + Auction

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Project Renewal raised over $1.6 million at its 29th Annual Benefit + Auction on June 4 at Pier Sixty.

This year’s benefit celebrated Project Renewal’s signature workplace development programs, including its Culinary Arts Training Program—which trains low-income and formerly homeless adults for careers in the culinary industry—and Next Step, a comprehensive job assistance program that works individually with clients to remove barriers to employment.

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Jonathan F.P. Rose, President and Founder of Jonathan Rose Companies, was honored at the event for his real estate firm’s innovative work in green affordable and mixed-income housing, including partnering with Project Renewal to develop Bedford Green House. Opening later this year in the Bronx, Bedford Green House, will provide 234 apartments, support services, and wellness amenities—including a rooftop aquaponics greenhouse—to low-income residents and families leaving shelter. 

Attendees heard from Diana Perez, a former Next Step client who now works as a supervisor at Marsha’s House, Project Renewal’s shelter for LGBTQ+ young adults experiencing homelessness. “Thanks to this organization, not only do I have a job, but I have financial stability and a career path,” said Diana. “For the first time since I was a child, I am optimistic about the future and I look forward to every new day.” Her inspiring story was featured in this video at the event.

Over 800 guests attended the event, enjoying cocktails, dinner, and a live auction, presented by Lydia Fenet, Managing Director and Global Director of Strategic Partnerships at Christie’s.

“We are deeply grateful to everyone who came tonight for supporting Project Renewal’s mission and making this night a tremendous success. The generosity of our donors, board members, and volunteers will help us to continue expanding our comprehensive services for homeless New Yorkers, including the innovative workforce development programs we celebrated tonight," said Project Renewal President & CEO Eric Rosenbaum.

Honoree Jonathan F.P. Rose

Honoree Jonathan F.P. Rose

The benefit co-chairs were Anita Friedman Berman, Russell Berman, Jenny Sharfstein Kane, and Andrew Kane. Many organizations generously sponsored the evening, including Morgan Stanley, Hollister Construction Services, Jonathan Rose Companies, Sera Security Services, Helm Equities, Gerner Kronick + Valcarcel, Architects, DPC, NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital, Bank of America, MetroPlus, and GFP Real Estate.