San Mateo, CA -- (SBWIRE) -- 09/10/2014 -- When the room finally cleared and the tally was counted, the number of the evening was lucky number 13. As in $13 million: the cumulative total raised over the last 25 years by the Housing Industry Foundation.

Hundreds gathered in Burlingame last Thursday for September Summit, the annual gala that brings together hundreds of real estate professionals to raise money for HIF, a local charity comprised of real estate owners and suppliers. HIF’s programs combat homelessness by making small one-time grants to families facing a housing crisis and by restoring aging buildings used for transitional housing.

“Nonprofit and public services are seeing dramatic increases in first time seekers of emergency support,” said Heather Wallace, President of HIF’s Board of Directors. “Those who are struggling need a compassionate, competent solution.”

Over 850 attendees rallied behind HIF’s cause, donating $533,000 at the Summit, just shy of last year’s record-setting total. Brian and Regan Avery wrapped up the evening by reflecting on the organization’s 25th anniversary. The brothers are principals of the real estate firm founded by their late father, who co-founded HIF. The duo urged the audience to donate, and they did – at an average of $418 per donor.

The retrospective capped a series of remembrances, including a toast to past honorees, many of whom attended the event. The first Summit was held in 1991 and raised $28,000.

Attendance overwhelmed the Marriott Waterfront once again, as HIF’s members thanked its generous donors and celebrated the organization’s continuing growth over cocktails and dinner. In the last eight months, HIF has saved 349 low-wage households from homelessness by paying their rent, utilities – or a security deposit to help them move out of unsafe conditions and into stable housing. The charity operates in Santa Clara and San Mateo counties and the grant recipients must demonstrate they are not chronically dependent, but victims of a one-time cash shortfall.

“An unstable housing situation often comes unexpectedly,” said Lexi Paza, HIF’s Program Manager. “We provide a bridge between crisis and self-sufficiency when no other group does.” The charity’s modest structure allows it to direct 100% of outside donations toward its programs.

About September Summit
In addition to being HIF’s primary fundraiser, the annual gala has become a magnet for apartment business networking and sells out months in advance. Last week’s installment also highlighted two projects HIF recently completed that renovated 45 apartments used by extremely low-income families in Redwood City and San Jose.

There wasn’t a dry eye in the banquet hall as grant recipient Mysie Hollands recounted how HIF allowed her to remain in stable housing with her great-grandson. The San Mateo rental home where four generations of her family had lived was suddenly sold and moving costs didn’t fit in her budget. A $1000 grant from HIF helped her transition to a senior complex that was otherwise an impossible move.