Over 360 guests joined the “No Kids on the Floor” event benefiting the Houston Furniture Bank at River Oaks Country Club on Saturday, June 1. Event chairs Francie Willis and Bernie Falco had a clear goal: to raise awareness and funds for the Houston Furniture Bank, which provides essential furniture for families in need, especially focusing on beds for children. Their efforts were rewarded with over $275,000 raised—a tremendous success!
Willis passionately shared, “The basic necessities for a family to live and most importantly for a child to have a bed to sleep on is what the Houston Furniture Bank does. It is a critical organization in our community and touches so many lives. We need to garner continued support from the community” The Houston Furniture Bank, originally conceived by Jodie Hoffer, has been helping families for an impressive 32 years.
The evening, led by emcee Khambrel Marshall, began with an invocation by Anita Carmen of Inspire Women, who shared her heartfelt story about how Jodie Hoffer provided furniture that allowed her organization to help thousands of women. A poignant video narrated by long-time Executive Director Oli Mohammed recounted the early days of the Furniture Bank.
Key honorees for the night included the three families who made Hoffer’s vision a reality: the Hoffer Family of Hoffer Furniture, the Finger Family of Finger Furniture, and the Wolff Family of Star Furniture. Each family, still actively involved, received a standing ovation as they were recognized on stage. Notably, it was announced that Hoffer Furniture is now run by fourth-generation family member Samantha Hoffer. Honoring these key Houston furniture families made for a joyful evening of many reunions of longtime friends and industry leaders.
The ambiance was enhanced by beautiful table centerpieces provided by H-E-B. Guests eagerly participated in purchasing surprise items from the giving tree, while a silent auction, featuring fabulous wine lots among other packages, generated additional funds. The night’s fundraising efforts were capped off with an appeal and live auction, ensuring a memorable and impactful evening.
As the event drew to a close, guests enjoyed desserts and coffee, mingling and celebrating the night’s success. Among the crowd were notable attendees such as Mike Willis, Lisa Helfman, Roz and Alan Pactor, Cyvia Wolff, Ellen and Steve Robinson, Gayle and Scott Hoffer, and many more.
This first-time gala beautifully highlighted the Houston Furniture Bank’s mission and the community’s commitment to ensuring no child in Houston has to sleep on the floor.
Photography by Daniel Ortiz Photography
Steve Finger, Karen and Murry Penner
