Street Samaritans Seventh Annual Open Hearts Gala

An inspiring evening of connection, compassion, and community, standing with our neighbors experiencing homelessness in Chicago.
About this Event

This is the night Chicago opens its heart.

Join Street Samaritans for our Seventh Annual Open Hearts Gala, an evening rooted in dignity, driven by compassion, and built around a simple belief: everyone deserves a safe, stable place to call home, and every person is the expert in their own life and their own needs.

We are gathering at the stunning Dalcy in Chicago's Fulton Market on Thursday, September 17, 2026, from 6:00 to 10:00 PM. It is a night that brings together neighbors, leaders, and dreamers who believe that love is best shown in action. Whether you are coming to support the mission, to connect with fellow changemakers, or simply to share a meaningful and elegant evening out, consider this your invitation to show up and stand with the people working to exit homelessness with courage and resilience.

This year, your presence carries even more weight. Proceeds help open our new Community Resource Center on Chicago's South Side, a space offering showers, laundry, nutritious meals, and vital connections to healthcare, mental health support, and housing.

What to Expect

• A vibrant cocktail reception and premium open bar
• A four-course seated dinner by Aba, Fulton Market's celebrated Mediterranean restaurant
• Live entertainment that uplifts and inspires
• Stories of strength from people we have walked alongside
• A thoughtfully curated silent auction and raffle
• A VIP after-party to keep the night going
• Real opportunities to connect, give, and build community

Tickets and Sponsorships
Individual tickets are $225 and we encourage you to reserve early. Between the dinner by Aba, the open bar, live entertainment, and after-party, the experience is valued well above the ticket price. Every dollar raised goes directly toward the housing, outreach, and case management services that help our neighbors move off the street and into a home of their own.

Sponsorship levels:

• Presenting Sponsor, $25,000 — top billing as the face of the gala, opening remarks to 300 guests, a full-page program ad, premium signage, and 30 tickets
• Angel Sponsor, $15,000 — featured recognition, a half-page program ad, and 20 tickets
• Good Samaritan Sponsor, $10,000 — event signage and digital recognition, a quarter-page program ad, and 10 tickets
• Open Heart Sponsor, $5,000 — signage and digital recognition, a program listing, and 5 tickets

To become a sponsor or request the full packet, reach out to us at [email protected].

Attire
Dress to celebrate. Think cocktail attire: a suit or sport coat, a cocktail dress, or whatever makes you feel polished, joyful, and ready for a beautiful night. No black tie required.

Let's open our hearts and open the door to home, healing, and hope. We cannot wait to share this night with you.

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