Local organization hosts fundraiser to provide heart surgery for children Nov. 9

Austin-based nonprofit HeartGift Foundation is hosting an event Nov. 9 to raise funds and save the lives of children in other countries.

HeartGift Foundation's Wine From The Heart Dinner and Auction starts at 6 p.m. at the AT&T Executive Education and Conference Center, 1900 University Ave. The evening includes live music by local band Check 1 and a fashion show featuring apparel by local store Julian Gold.

"This is a very special night for HeartGift," HeartGift Foundation CEO Lisa Rodman said. "For me, the Wine From The Heart Dinner and Auction exemplifies what can be accomplished by bringing together generous Texans with an appreciation for good food and wine and a heart for kids in need."

HeartGift began in Austin in 2000 and provides funding for children who need heart surgery and live in countries where medical treatment is scarce or nonexistent. Children and their caregiver are flown to the U.S. for heart surgery and stay with host families after the procedure, said Suzie Chase Brown, co-chair for HeartGift Foundation's Wine From The Heart Dinner and Auction.

HeartGift has partners around the world that donate services such as medical diagnosis, treatment and air travel for children in need of heart surgery. Eighty three percent of donations go toward patient services.

Volunteer opportunities include hosting children and their caregivers after surgery, language translation for HeartGift to communicate with families in other countries and help with annual fundraising events. The organization has chapters in Louisiana and throughout Texas in San Antonio, Dallas-Fort Worth and Houston.

To make a monetary donation or sign up to attend the Wine From The Heart Dinner and Auction, visit www.heartgift.orghttps://www.heartgift.org.