The Community Housing Assistance Fund (CHAF) was started over 25 years ago, initiated by a small but visionary group of real estate agents in Cambridge wanting to assist those experiencing housnig insecurity. They learned from city leaders that what was most needed was funds to cover the "entry fee" for an apartment rental: 1st month's rent, or the security deposit, or even funds to pay off ourstanding utility bills. So, these agents started CHAF to meet that neeed, hosting an annual fundraiser with local agents and their real estate partners. Along the way, they connected with HomeStart, a homelessness prevention organization which does amazing work. eventually, HomeStart became CHAF's home, and were the ones who distributed CHAF funds to those in need (not just in Cambridge, but in Boston as well). The real estate community : Agents, Attorneys, Lenders, Banks, Developers, Home Inspectors and clients continue to take ownership for raising the funds for distribution. The longevity of this effort it, I think, quite amazing! 
Post pandemic, our campaign has shifted from a fundraising "gala" event to a smaller, more intimate "kick off" party, followed by personal outreach to friends, colleagues, and clients for donations. The past 4 years we have raised over $500,000, which has enabled HomeStart to assist over 450 individuals in acquiring or maintaining secure housing. Our official goal for this year is $100,000 (but more is always welcome!). Please check out our sponsorship levels on the right-hand side of the past. We would be delighted to add you to our donor list!