On May 8, Food Bank For New York City took over The Grill & The Pool at the iconic Seagram Building to host our second annual Gotham Ball. More than just a party, this event was a celebration of New York City and its Food Bank, featuring delectable bites from some of the city's most notable chefs.
The star-studded crowd not only enjoyed cocktails and hors d'oeuvres, but also got the chance to bid on exclusive auction items, learn about our work, and, of course, dance the night away.
Live entertainment throughout the night captured the rocking spirit of NYC.
As guests arrived, they were greeted by smiling Food Bankers and a special cab dressed up for the night's festivities. After checking in, attendees moved to The Grill to mingle over lively conversations, delicious libations, and a groovy DJ set.
Guests were invited to pose with our special Food Bank cab.
Revelers started the evening in The Grill.
At the strike of 8 pm, Party-goers made their way to The Pool, where culinary stations from Dirty French, Carbone, Estiatorio Milos, Nami Nori, and more were waiting for them with specialty small bites and treats. A rocking band was also playing live music that soared throughout the candlelit space.
Guests enjoyed small bites and cocktails while sitting around The Pool.
Nami Nuri turned it out with these crispy sushi roll-ups.
"Next Level Chef" star Cassie Yeung and friend enjoying the music and vibes in The Pool.
Why not end the night with delectable bite-sized donuts from Fan Fan Doughnuts?
After sampling dishes from our amazing team of chefs, restauranteurs, and culinary superstars, guests gathered to hear remarks from Food Bank Board Member Katie Lee Biegel.
Biegel touched on the power of Food Bank supporters and encouraged those in the room to share their Whys with one another. She then introduced Food Bank President & CEO Leslie Gordon to the stage.
Food Bank Board Member Katie Lee Biegel delivered a heartfelt speech.
Gordon thanked guests for coming and shared updates on what's been going on at Food Bank since last year's Gotham Ball, including the construction of a new refrigeration space in our Warehouse, the reopening of community meal service in our Community Kitchen, and the news that in 2023 we distributed more than 94 million pounds of food to New Yorkers in need, thanks to the generosity of supporters like those gathered in the room.
Food Bank President & CEO Leslie Gordon talked about the hunger heroes who have long inspired her own work.
She then introduced guests to our neighbor, Gregory. Known in our Community Kitchen for his consummate style and flair, Gregory has been both a participant and volunteer in our programming since 2018. He also happens to run a small business out of his home crafting bespoke bowties that are as vibrant as he is.
To celebrate Gregory and his story of resilience and empowerment, Leslie invited guests to turn their attention to the screen to learn more about this amazing New Yorker.
Fired up and ready to go, the crowd dove into our live auction, bidding on a range of items including a private culinary adventure at Milos Midtown, a custom art piece from pop artist Ashley Longshore, and bowties handmade by Gregory himself.
The auction was a lively affair, with bids zooming across the room.
Once the auction was done, it was time to grab the bubbly and dance. As members of our extended Food Bank family moved throughout the space, we couldn't help but feel overwhelmed with gratitude for their tireless support of our mission to empower every New Yorker to achieve food security for good. Truly, a night we won't soon forget.
Enjoy a few more pics below or click here to see our full album!
The Pool was the place to be as party-goers mingled with one another and learned about our mission.
Leslie Gordon with SNL star and Food Bank friend Kenan Thompson.
Guests, including Food Bank Junior Board Chair Sarah Bennett (center), enjoyed a night of live music, amazing food, and new friends.
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