Steve Pool and Brad Goode, both of KOMO4 News, were the Honorary Chair and Emcee for Vision House’s annual “NoHomelessKids” Luncheon at the Bellevue Hilton May 16.

Launched in 1990 by local founders John and Susan Camerer, the organization has helped more than 800 children, women and men receive housing and support services to make a fresh start in their lives.

Arriving guests were met with the sight of a car parked outside the entry doors, replete with all the contents a homeless person would need to live in it:  sleeping bag, clothes, non-perishable foods, TP, flashlight, paper towels, tooth paste, bottle of water.

It was topped with a cardboard sign, reading, “if you lived here you’d be home now.”

This year’s event was attended by more than 400 guests, with donations well over the goal of $200,000.

Steve Pool issued a challenge, saying, “You’ve all come with a figure in your head.  I ask you to up that – if you’re planning to give $100, add another $20.”

Many did. Organizers report several checks for $100 were handed in with a $20 bill attached.

Presenting sponsor The Mosaic Company lead the way with a $35,000 matching sponsorship, with two anonymous gifts bringing the total matching amount to $80,000.

Vision House, located in the Renton Highlands, can serve up to 85 homeless individuals in 23 apartments for mothers and children, and two homes for single men. They are expanding with a new site, Jacob’s Well, nearing completion in Shoreline.

A separate fundraiser celebrating that opening will take place in Lynnwood in November.

For more information, visit nohomelesskids.org.