CHICAGO (WLS) — The Chicago Help Initiative, a steadfast lifeline for people experiencing homelessness and hardship, will host its annual benefit, Carnaval of Giving, on Thursday from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. at Fogo de Chão, located at 661 N. LaSalle Drive in River North.

This festive celebration-featuring Brazilian-inspired cuisine, live music, and a silent auction-will raise vital funds for CHI’s year-round programs that serve thousands of Chicagoans in need.

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Guests will experience a vibrant evening of community, compassion, and connection. All proceeds will directly support CHI’s free meal service, case management, mental health support, housing assistance, adult learning programs, and its innovative Free Store and Move-In Box initiative for individuals transitioning into stable housing.

Tickets are $200 for the Early Bird registration that includes dinner, drinks, entertainment, and a community-driven silent auction. Sponsorships start at $1,000 and include branding opportunities and VIP recognition. To purchase tickets, donate, or become a sponsor, visit https://secure.acceptiva.com/?cst=3Wwudq.

“This event is more than a party-it’s a promise to show up for our neighbors,” said Doug Fraser, CHI’s executive director. “Our fellow organizations, which rely on federal funding, are experiencing significant cuts and disruptions to essential services that communities rely on. These shifts not only threaten their operations but also the well-being of the individuals we serve.”

Founded in 2001 by civic leader Jacqueline C. Hayes, CHI operates independently without government funding, relying entirely on private donors, volunteers, and the business community.

As public safety nets shrink, CHI’s agile, relationship-centered model is stepping up to fill the void-one meal, one person, one future at a time. Learn more at chicagohelpinitiative.org.