Inspiring program features Chef Wolfgang Puck and musical performance by Ishay Ribo.

(Courtesy of Chai Lifeline) Providing further hope that the social world we once knew is returning to a degree of normalcy, one of the Jewish fundraising calendar’s most sought-after events took place this week as over 800 people gathered in support of the work of Chai Lifeline.

Held at Pier Sixty in New York, the evening featured a musical performance by Israeli singing sensation Ishay Ribo as well as a one-of-a-kind kosher culinary experience presented by internationally renowned chef Wolfgang Puck.

“Our annual gala is an important opportunity for the community to come together to celebrate the important work of Chai Lifeline and show its support for the more than 6,000 children and families that rely on our services and programs,” said Rabbi Simcha Scholar, CEO of Chai Lifeline. “From counseling and mental health support to emergency financial assistance, Chai Lifeline is there to help alleviate the pain families face during the most challenging of times.”

The Maimonides Medical Achievement Award was presented to Jorge Capote, vice president of patient relations at Memorial Sloan Kettering. The gala also saw the dedication of the Dr. Leon and Frances Gerstein Z”L National Counseling Program and paid tribute on the occasion of the fifth anniversary of the Evan Levy Z”L Fund, established to provide direct financial support to families in medical crises.

Each year the network of financial, emotional and practical support services provided by Chai Lifeline help over 6,000 children and families in need with regional offices around the world. To learn more, visit www.chailifeline.org.