Binational Solidarity Makes History: More Than $200,000 Raised for CAHOVA

More than $200,000 was raised to transform Casa Hogar para Varones’ facilities and carry forward the legacy of an initiative born from a commitment to vulnerable children.

Solidarity, gastronomy, and cultural expression came together for a memorable evening at the Desde el Corazón (From the Heart) benefit gala, organized by VPT Fundación at Bloomingdale’s Fashion Valley in San Diego. The event aimed to support CAHOVA A.C. (Casa Hogar para Varones), a Mexicali-based institution dedicated to providing protection, education, and a home for children facing vulnerable circumstances.

Beyond Borders Gazette received a special invitation to the celebration, attended by its Publisher and Editor-in-Chief, Ellie Burgueño, who witnessed an evening that brought together prominent members of the business, social, and culinary communities from both sides of the border, united by a cause committed to creating better opportunities for children.

The event featured the participation of renowned chefs who shared their culinary talents and creations, turning gastronomy into an expression of generosity. Fashion also took center stage with a spectacular runway presentation featuring models dressed as Catrinas, celebrating Mexican traditions through art, culture, and fashion.

Among the runway participants were children of members of the foundation’s board of directors, along with other family members, who enthusiastically joined the initiative, demonstrating that solidarity is also nurtured within families and passed on to younger generations.

Held on September 24, 2026, the gala raised more than $200,000, with proceeds going directly to CAHOVA to improve its facilities and enhance living conditions for the children and young people under its care. The institution confirmed the fundraising achievement in a September 29 announcement.

Planned improvements include the construction of new dormitories, a comprehensive renovation of the playground area, the development of outdoor spaces, and the installation of a new perimeter fence to strengthen security throughout the property.

An Initiative That Became a Lasting Legacy

CAHOVA’s story began long before this celebration. Its origins trace back to an initiative led by María Cristina Ramos de Hermosillo, who, after witnessing the circumstances of children living on the streets of Mexicali, championed the creation of a place where they could find protection, stability, and opportunities to build a different future.

On July 18, 2001, CAHOVA opened its doors, initially welcoming seven children. Since then, the initiative has evolved into a social service organization that provides housing, meals, education, medical care, and emotional support free of charge.

Although its founder has passed away, the vision behind this meaningful initiative lives on through the dedication of those who continue advancing its mission and working to ensure that more children have access to a safe environment and a future filled with greater possibilities.

Today, CAHOVA serves children between the ages of 5 and 18 through a comprehensive model that supports their physical, emotional, academic, and social development, while also working to rebuild family relationships whenever circumstances allow.

A Vision for Growth That Needs Everyone’s Support

The success of Desde el Corazón represents an important step forward, while opening the door to an even more ambitious vision: expanding the institution’s facilities to accommodate more children and provide improved living conditions, greater comfort and security, as well as recreational and educational spaces that will strengthen its mission.

The long-term aspiration is to ensure that no child who finds refuge at CAHOVA has their future limited by a lack of opportunities, and that they can receive continued educational support throughout their academic journey, including the opportunity to attend and graduate from college.

Achieving this vision will require continued support from donors, businesses, foundations, and individuals committed to improving children’s lives. CAHOVA offers several ways to contribute, including monthly sponsorships, financial donations, and in-kind contributions.

The gala delivered a message that extends far beyond one evening of celebration: when gastronomy, talent, business leadership, and the willingness to give come together, they can create meaningful opportunities and transform lives.

Because giving a child a home means more than providing a roof over their head, it means offering security, education, hope, and the opportunity to build a future they may never have imagined. A truly meaningful cause that deserves to keep growing and bringing more hearts together.

Follow CAHOVA on social media and learn how you can become part of this mission.