PHILADELPHIA (KYW Newsradio) — One of Philadelphia's largest and most vibrant fundraisers, the annual Black-Tie GayBINGO, came back Saturday night after a pandemic hiatus.
The unofficial theme for the night was a Mad Men-inspired 1960s motif, so the black tie drag queens brought out their best vintage gowns for the occasion. Hundreds of supporters turned out for an evening filled with lots of glam, laughs, and fun.
It was all for a serious cause, however. The event, held at the Loews Hotel in Center City by the AIDS Fund, has raised more than $4 million over the years to support those living with HIV/AIDS, as well as awareness efforts.
"Many of our grants go to keeping people in housing, keeping people in care, back rent, utilities," said Robb Reichard, executive director of AIDS Fund.
"We have all of this medicine now that's helping people but because it's there, well, 'It's not that big of a deal anymore.' [But] it's still a health crisis, it's still an epidemic and that's why we're here playing bingo," said Stella D'oro, associate director for AIDS Fund and a "Bingo Verifying Diva" for the event.
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D'oro said they're excited to be back in person this year with hundreds of Gaybingo supporters. All funds from the event go directly to AIDS Fund to help support people who are HIV-positive and facing financial crisis.
Reichard said COVID-19 added another layer of complication to the vulnerable communities they support.
"What happened during COVID, service industries were out of work and so they fell behind on their work, so we were able to assist them with that or other medical needs – a walker, cane, or hearing aid," he explained.
The honoree of the night was Sandra Thompson, a longtime supporter of the LGBTQ commmunties. For decades, she volunteered countless hours to HIV/AIDS services. And at 70 years old, she's still going.
"At the time I got involved, a lot of people my age were getting sick and dying. There was so little interest by the general public. There was so much scorn, there was so much judgment, that you've got to get involved with this," said Thompson.
"It's nice to be honored by people that mean so much to you. This organization means a great deal to me."
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