Under a canopy of twinkling lights and community spirit, Twin Lakes Food Bank’s Starry Night Gala brought together friends, neighbors, and supporters for an unforgettable evening dedicated to feeding hope.
The sold-out event welcomed more than 290 guests and over 50 volunteers, including prominent community members such as California Assemblyman Josh Hoover, Sacramento County Supervisor Rosario Rodriguez, Folsom Mayor Sarah Aquino, Vice Mayor Justin Raithel, Folsom City Council Member Barbara Leary, and other distinguished guests, all joining forces to raise critical funds to sustain the food bank’s programs throughout the year.
Thanks to the incredible generosity and enthusiasm of guests and sponsors, this year’s Starry Night Gala was nothing short of spectacular. Together, participants raised $257,000—and counting—with additional gifts still coming in from the online auction open through November 9 at 7 p.m.
The evening featured heartfelt stories, a lively auction hosted by Freddie Silveria and Ian Cornell, and a crowd-pleasing performance by Groove Therapy, whose music kept the celebration going well into the night. The atmosphere truly embodied the Starry Night theme—warm, radiant, and full of joy—as guests reflected the light of compassion and generosity that defines the Folsom community.
Speaking to guests before dinner, Executive Director Lisa Tuter shared, “I am inspired that in a time of deep division and distrust in our world, there are nearly 300 people in this room with diverse cultural, political, and religious experiences standing united with the shared belief that access to nutritious food is not a privilege, it’s a right for all humanity. The funds raised tonight will help us meet the growing need we’re seeing in some very uncertain times.”
The energy in the room was electric as guests bid passionately on more than ten unforgettable live auction experiences, raising over $49,000 in a flurry of friendly competition. Bidding went wild when eight exclusive cocktails—crafted fresh with fruit and herbs straight from the food bank’s garden—hit the auction block, bringing in an additional $3,000.
Laughter and cheers echoed through the ballroom during the Lucky Card Draw, and hearts opened wide during Fund-A-Need, which alone brought in an inspiring $96,000 to help nourish neighbors in need. Then came one of the evening’s most anticipated moments—the Dessert Dash—as guests sprinted to claim their favorite sweets, raising an incredible $22,000 in the process.
Twin Lakes Board President Ron Perry shared, “Our investment tonight has an immediate return. Guests will receive nourishing food this very next week to meet their immediate needs in these uncertain times. On top of that, they will be given food in a manner that gives them dignity and hope.”
At a time of uncertainty for many food banks, the funds raised through Starry Night will help sustain essential food programs and expand services during the busy holiday season and well throughout next year. Twin Lakes Food Bank extends heartfelt thanks to the sponsors, volunteers, and guests whose generosity made the evening possible. Together, they’re shining a light of hope that will continue to brighten lives all year long.
Community members who wish to continue the momentum can support Twin Lakes Food Bank by becoming monthly donors, hosting a food drive, or making a year-end gift before December 31. To learn more or make a donation, visit www.twinlakesfoodbank.org.
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