Robin Hood annual benefit raises $126 million

The Robin Hood Foundation raised $126 million during its annual benefit this week to continue its mission of elevating families out of poverty. Also announced at the event was the formation of the organization’s Child Care Quality & Innovation Initiative, which expands access to affordable child care programs throughout the city.

The benefit “was a testament to the generosity of the Robin Hood community who came together once again to raise a remarkable sum of $126 million – including a $50 million commitment from New York City,” said Robin Hood CEO Richard R. Buery, Jr. “Robin Hood envisions a New York City where your starting point in life does not define where you end up in life, and we are so grateful to our donors and the amazing talent who joined us last night for helping us to continue that mission on behalf of the 1.4 million New Yorkers living in poverty.”

During the event, the Bezos Family Foundation announced a $10 million gift to Robin Hood, alongside the announcement of a $50 million commitment from New York City and a $25 million gift from Alexis Ohanian, the founder of the 776 Foundation and co-founder and former executive chairman of Reddit.

The night hosted notable speakers, such as New York City Mayor Eric Adams and Gov. Kathy Hochul. Also on hand was comedian Tracy Morgan and singer Charlie Puth, who performed his singles “Light Switch” and “Attention,” followed by a rendition of his hit, “See You Again,” during which he was joined by the student chorus from Staten Island’s P.S. 22. The Empire State Building also was lit up in Robin Hood Green to celebrate the foundation.