Organizers of The Carying Place’s annual benefit auction and gala invite the public to participate in the 2020 event, called “There is No Place Like Home.” All are welcome, and no tickets are needed.

The virtual event will happen on Friday, Aug. 21, at 7 p.m., and will include: a celebration of the nonprofit’s service to the community, a graduate family testimonial, auction items, two raffles (50/50 and trip raffles), a fund a family appeal, and recognition of the event sponsors.

Those who wish to view items available in the silent auction can get a sneak peek now at one.bidpal.net/tcp2020/browse/all. Bidding in the silent auction begins Monday, Aug. 17. 

All proceeds from the annual fundraiser will support the families served by the nonprofit.

“Our biggest goal is to stop the cycle of homelessness,” said Leslie Covington, executive director of the Carying Place.

The Carying Place teaches homeless, working families with children life skills for attaining independent living, while providing short-term housing and support services to address their individual needs.

Volunteers provide weekly guidance in seeking permanent affordable housing and maintaining a job. Its 16-week training program also includes instruction in budgeting, goal-setting, time management and self-sufficiency.

In its 27 years, the Carying Place has worked with over 440 families with an approximate 80% success rate, according to the nonprofit’s website. Currently, nine families are living in homes owned by the Carying Place.  About 30 requests a week for housing assistance or homelessness-related services are requested, resulting in about 120 families served monthly by the nonprofit.