Branches Transforms its 2020 Gala into a Virtual Fundraiser

Due to the COVID-19 Pandemic, Branches was forced to cancel its 17th Annual Black Tie & Blue Jeans Gala scheduled for May 9th, 2020. However, thanks to an incredible Matching Grant provided by Trish and Dan Bell, all Gala donations and all Gala sponsorships which were converted into donations were matched $1 for $1. Branches also hosted its first ever Online Auction, and thanks to its many donors, it was a huge success. Thank you to all the generous funders for their support of Branches.

Since the COVID-19 Pandemic hit the Miami community, Branches has been working tirelessly to serve children and families. Branches ramped up its meal service and to date has provided over 21,000 grab-and-go meals for children and families. Within 24 hours of the schools closing, Branches’ Grow & Climb student services team began connecting with children, youth and families via phone calls, text messages and Zoom meetings. The Achieve team is providing financial wellness services through Zoom meetings and phone calls, providing financial coaching, small business and emergency assistance. The Achieve staff has provided over 3,000 virtual meetings with participants, and has provided Business Coaching sessions to 705 small businesses, completing dozens of loan applications. With VITA free tax prep sites closed, Branches launched a ‘Walk-Up’ Window tax prep service and was one of the few VITA sites to reopen in the State of Florida. Branches is incredibly proud to serve this community when people need us the most.

Please visit branchesfl.org to learn more.

Please visit branchesfl.org to learn more.

This story was originally published June 23, 2020 at 7:00 AM.