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Illumination Health + Home Raises Over $1.75M at Gala for OC's Unhoused Families
Annual Chef's Table event highlights nonprofit's integrated model of housing, healthcare, and support services.
Mar. 31, 2026 at 7:54pm
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The vibrant Chef's Table gala brought together community leaders, renowned chefs, and dedicated supporters to celebrate Illumination Health + Home's mission of providing housing, healthcare, and critical support services for individuals and families experiencing homelessness in Orange County.Irvine TodayIllumination Health + Home, a nonprofit organization in Orange County, California, hosted its annual Chef's Table: An Epicurean Experience gala on March 22, 2026, raising over $1.75 million to support its programs providing housing, healthcare, and critical support services for individuals and families experiencing homelessness. The event brought together community leaders, renowned chefs, and dedicated supporters to celebrate Illumination's mission of creating pathways to stability, dignity, and long-term well-being for the region's most vulnerable residents.
Why it matters
Homelessness is a persistent challenge in Orange County, and Illumination Health + Home's integrated approach to providing housing, healthcare, and wraparound services aims to disrupt the cycle of homelessness and empower individuals and families to rebuild their lives. The success of the Chef's Table gala highlights the community's commitment to supporting this important work and expanding access to life-changing care.
The details
The Chef's Table gala welcomed 431 guests and featured culinary creations from eight acclaimed Southern California chefs, a performance by the band LIVE 61, and remarks from Illumination Health + Home's CEO, Dr. Pooja Bhalla. Funds raised from the event will directly support the organization's programs, including healthcare, case management, and comprehensive services that empower individuals and families experiencing homelessness.
- The Chef's Table gala was held on March 22, 2026.
- Illumination Health + Home has been redefining care for individuals and families experiencing homelessness in Orange County.
The players
Illumination Health + Home
A nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization that provides targeted, interdisciplinary services for the most vulnerable homeless adults and children to disrupt the cycle of homelessness.
Dr. Pooja Bhalla
The CEO of Illumination Health + Home.
Karen Jordan
The Board Member and Development Committee Chair who chaired the 2026 Chef's Table gala.
Chef Kori Sutton
The private chef and winner of Hell's Kitchen who curated the multi-course dinner for the gala.
LIVE 61
The band that performed at the gala, featuring Mark McGrath of Sugar Ray and Skip Martin of Kool & The Gang and The Dazz Band.
What they’re saying
“Chef's Table is a powerful reflection of what happens when compassion meets action. Because of our community's generosity, we can continue supporting access to housing, healthcare, and the critical support families need to heal, grow, and thrive. Together, we are creating lasting change and restoring hope.”
— Dr. Pooja Bhalla, CEO of Illumination Health + Home
“Food has the power to bring people together, but tonight showed how it can also drive meaningful change. In a community facing real challenges around homelessness, it is inspiring to see people come together to support an organization that is creating real solutions every day. It is an honor to be part of something that truly makes an impact.”
— Chef Kori Sutton, Private chef and winner of Hell's Kitchen
What’s next
Illumination Health + Home plans to use the funds raised at the Chef's Table gala to continue expanding its programs and services to support more individuals and families experiencing homelessness in Orange County.
The takeaway
Illumination Health + Home's integrated approach to providing housing, healthcare, and comprehensive support services is making a tangible difference in the lives of those facing homelessness in Orange County. The success of the Chef's Table gala demonstrates the community's commitment to supporting this important work and creating lasting change.
