Illumination Health + Home successfully raised over $1.75 million at its annual Chef’s Table gala, held on March 22 at the Hyatt Regency Irvine. The event was organized to support housing, healthcare, and vital services for individuals and families experiencing homelessness in Orange County. The gala drew 431 attendees and highlighted the community’s commitment to social impact.
“Chef’s Table demonstrates the power of compassion in action,” said Dr. Pooja Bhalla, CEO of Illumination Health + Home. “Thanks to our generous supporters, we can continue providing access to housing, healthcare, and critical services that help families heal, grow, and thrive.”
During the event, the Bera Family was honored for their multigenerational dedication to education, healthcare access, and community development. Additionally, the UniHealth Foundation received recognition for its sustained efforts in advancing population health and strengthening the healthcare workforce while expanding care for underserved populations.
The gala was chaired by Board Member and Development Committee Chair Karen Jordan. Funds raised during the evening will support programs delivering medical and behavioral healthcare, case management, and housing assistance to families and individuals in need. Present at the event were California Congressmen Ami Bera—whose family was recognized—Lou Correa, Derek Tran, and Dave Min, underscoring strong political and community support.
A highlight of the evening was a multi-course dinner curated by Chef Kori Sutton, winner of Hell’s Kitchen. The program also featured contributions from renowned chefs including Rich Mead, Adam Navidi, Ben Martinek, Kevin Meyer, Daniel Hohng, David Martin, Shachi Mehra, and Jose Angulo. Guests enjoyed a live auction and a performance by LIVE 61, featuring Mark McGrath and Skip Martin, adding entertainment and excitement to the fundraising efforts.
The gala’s success demonstrates the collective power of community, business, and public leadership in addressing homelessness and supporting comprehensive healthcare initiatives. With the funds raised, Illumination Health + Home will continue to provide critical resources that enable families to achieve stability, wellness, and long-term growth, reinforcing its mission to create lasting impact across Orange County.
