HUGS Hosts Movie-Themed Gala on May 25, 2024 “Lights, Camera, HUGS!” at the Ko‘olau Grand Ballroom

March 4, 2024

HONOLULU – HUGS (Help Understanding & Group Support), a nonprofit organization dedicated to helping Hawaii’s families with seriously ill children, will host its annual gala and largest fundraiser of the year on Saturday, May 25, 2024 at Ko‘olau Grand Ballroom in Kaneohe.

The movie-themed gala, called “Lights, Camera, HUGS!” will honor Zippy’s Restaurants for their many years of support for HUGS and for all they do for the community at large. HUGS’ partnership with Zippy’s and its CEO, Jason Higa, goes back to 2009 when Jason joined the HUGS Board and served as Board President in 2013 and 2014. “I was moved by the mission of HUGS to provide wrap-around services for the families of children with serious illnesses,” said Higa. “But what kept me involved with HUGS was the sense of ‘ohana that was created between the families and the HUGS staff. When a child is going through serious health issues, the entire family needs emotional and financial support. I am proud of the way that HUGS has responded countless times to stabilize families whose lives have been turned upside down.”

The Lights, Camera, HUGS! Gala begins at 5:30 p.m. and will feature a buffet dinner and bar stations, a silent auction, drawings and giveaways, entertainment by New Hope Oahu who will perform popular soundtrack hits, and more. This year will also mark HUGS’ 42nd anniversary of supporting Hawaii’s seriously ill children and their families.

“All HUGS programs and services are offered free of charge to the families we serve,” said Maureen Purington, HUGS Executive Director. “Through the generous support of our donors and corporate partners like Zippy’s, HUGS is able to provide comprehensive programs and services to each HUGS family member, so they don’t have to face their journey alone.”

Table sponsorships are available at $3,500 (Bronze Sponsor), $5,000 (Silver Sponsor) and $8,000 (Gold Sponsor). Individual tickets are also available to the general public for $200 per person. Funds raised will make a difference for Hawaii’s families with a child living with a serious illness.

Media Contact:
Alex Wereszczynskyj
alex@hugshawaii.org