$14K Raised At Neighbors 4 Neighbors Holiday Hope Fundraiser

MIAMI BEACH (CBS4) - The Neighbors 4 Neighbors "Adopt-A-Family" program raised more than $14,000 Friday night for those in need thanks to the generous South Florida community.

More than 300 people opened their hearts and their wallets at the Holiday for Hope fundraiser at De Rodriguez Ocean on South Beach, which benefited Neighbors 4 Neighbors "Adopt-A-Family" and Operation Elf Toy Drive program.

In addition to the food and drinks, participants had an opportunity to bid on some spectacular items in a thrilling auction. The two most popular auctions were dates with CBS4 Meteorologist Lissette Gonzalez and CBS4 Anchor Jawan Strader.

The woman who "won" Jawan Strader paid $260, and the date with Lissette Gonzalez was the biggest money maker. The bidding was so competitive that CBS4 Sports Anchor turned event emcee sold two dates with Lissette for $1,500 each. Jawan will double date with Lissette and one of her admirers at Smith and Wollensky.

In addition to the auction, there were some spectacular raffle items such as an electric bicycle, private flying lesson, and a trip to Key West. These were just a few of the amazing raffle items.

CBS4's Jeff Berardelli and Natalia Zea hosted this extremely successful event for the second year in a row.

All of the money raised goes to help the needy over the holidays and provides clothes and gifts as well.