Held at The Woodlands Waterway Marriott Hotel & Convention Center and presented by Huntsman, the event was dedicated to Rev. Don Gebert, Interfaith’s founding executive director who died in March 2021.
The awards program has honored 144 individuals and organizations previously, according to a news release. This year's Hometown Heroes are: Paula Klapesky; Walt Lisiewski; Tim Welbes; Texas Children’s Hospital The Woodlands, represented by Ketrese White; the Canopy Cancer Survivorship Center at Memorial Hermann The Woodlands Medical Center, represented by Justin Kendrick; and an anonymous donor received a medallion and a U.S. House of Representatives Commendation presented by U.S. Rep. Kevin Brady.
“This gala is symbolic of The Woodlands representing neighbors helping neighbors in the name of service," said Missy Herndon, president and CEO of Interfaith of The Woodlands, in a news release. "Each year, our community comes together to celebrate the gift of generosity, the impact of supporting our neighbors and to honor our Hometown Heroes. This year was extremely special as our community, once again, came back together to love and care for our neighbors in need.”
Among the speakers at the event was Chris Davis, managing partner at Truluck’s Seafood, Steak and Crabhouse, who shared stories from wait staff affected by COVID-19 who received assistance with rent or mortgage, utilities, gas and food from Interfaith. According to a news release, Interfaith serves about 500 families a month.
The event also raised $450,000 for crisis assistance in South Montgomery County, according to the news release.
