Two families in New Orleans displaced by Hurricane Katrina will soon have new homes thanks to MAGIC's semi-annual Opening Night Party co-sponsored with the Joseph Abboud brand. The event raised $150,000 for the New Orleans Area Habitat for Humanity (NOAHH).
Attendees supported the Mardi Gras-themed event that featured New Orleans natives, the Neville Brothers. Aside from performing, Neville Productions made a personal contribution of $25,000 to the cause as well. For the first time, additional funds were also collected at donation booths on MAGIC's show floor and at a silent auction held during the event.
Construction on the homes is expected to begin in six months and the properties will be sold to Habitat partner families at cost, through a zero-interest, no down payment mortgage. “MAGIC's initial goal was to raise enough money to build one house in New Orleans, but thanks to all our loyal exhibitors and retailers, we have exceeded expectations, helping two families,” said Chris McCabe, vice president and general manager, MAGIC International.
“It's hard to believe that Hurricane Katrina occurred almost two years ago and it's disheartening that there are still so many without adequate shelter. Considering that many of MAGIC's partners and attendees were affected by the hurricane, our partnership with NOAHH was a perfect fit for our traditional Opening Night Party fundraising.”
The MAGIC and Joseph Abboud brand silent auction was a particularly big hit, offering items including tickets to the 2007 U.S. Open, Fendi sunglasses, a VIP weekend at the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino, a Vince Young autographed Super Bowl football and custom-made Joseph Abboud men's tailored suits, among others.
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