Holiday Heart
Trees of Hope gala spreads holiday cheer for Houston’s homeless families
The Four Seasons Houston became a festive scene as Trees of Hope hosted its annual gala, “Lift Up Hope: A Chalet Soiree.” The evening on November 15 benefitted Star of Hope’s Children’s Critical Care Fund, a vital program providing resources for Houston’s homeless children and their families.
The event, emceed by local personality Johnny Bravo, featured an enchanting auction with items such as a towering 12-foot Christmas tree donated by CrafTex, sparkling jewelry, fabulous vacations, and even an adorable puppy. Guests reveled in the holiday spirit while partaking in a lively wine pull and bidding on the creatively decorated trees that have become a hallmark of the party.
Chaired by Ashley Boyd, Kristen Colander, and Donna Noll, the gala honored Susan Lewis, a longtime Trees of Hope board member whose dedication to the cause has made a lasting impact. Since its founding in 1990 by Carloss Morris, Trees of Hope has raised more than $11.7 million for Star of Hope, Houston’s longest-serving mission for the homeless. This year’s event continued that tradition, bringing in $592,000 to support programs that address critical needs like education, family stability, and access to essential services.
Spotted were Alina Schrom, Erin Silva, Lisa and Michael Barth, Kristin Netherland, Susan and David Lewis, Alexandra Van Meurs Nelson, John Ayure, Samantha Olivares, Lauren Alleman Hutchens, Elizabeth Epler Jones, Matt Noll, Lauren Carroll, Mark Boyd, Trevor Carroll, Deborah and Jim Kocinski, Eileen and Rey Ruiz, April and Enrique Cruz, Danielle Doke, Lisa Battaglia and Joel Thompson, Monica Danna, Doug Meikle, Lyndsie Palmer, Calen Anderson, and Linda and David Johnson.