Full Breakdown
Celebrating Philanthropy at the 2025 God’s Love We Deliver Golden Heart Awards
10/22/2025, 2:50:11 PM
Gala Highlights and Purpose
On October 20, 2025, the God’s Love We Deliver Golden Heart Awards took place at the Cathedral of St. John the Divine in New York City, celebrating 40 years of service to individuals affected by severe and chronic illnesses. The gala raised over $4 million to support the organization’s mission of providing medically tailored meals, a vital service that has grown from its origins during the AIDS crisis to become a leading nonprofit in New York.
Honorees and Performances
This year, Anne Hathaway and Audra McDonald were honored for their outstanding contributions to philanthropy. Hathaway received the Golden Heart Award for Outstanding Philanthropy and Volunteerism, while McDonald was recognized with the Michael Kors Award for Outstanding Philanthropy, Artistry, and Activism. Michael Kors, a long-time supporter of God’s Love We Deliver, praised McDonald, stating, “As big as her talent is, her heart truly is bigger.”
The evening featured performances from Ben Platt, who dedicated songs to both honorees, including “I Dreamed a Dream” for Hathaway. The event also included a live auction that significantly contributed to the fundraising efforts, with attendees like Hathaway, Mark Ronson, and Gigi Hadid actively participating.
Anne Hathaway’s Commitment
Hathaway expressed her long-standing connection to God’s Love We Deliver, recalling her first encounter with the organization as a young actress. “I didn’t know a lot about what they did, but I thought, maybe we’ll do some good,” she reflected. During her acceptance speech, she emphasized the importance of compassion, stating, “To live in New York, you have to have heart... Oceans of it.”
Audra McDonald’s Message
McDonald highlighted the active nature of compassion, asserting, “God’s Love reminds us that compassion is not passive. It isn’t pity. It’s a daily practice.” Her remarks resonated with the audience, reinforcing the event's focus on community support and engagement.
Celebrity Attendance and Atmosphere
The gala attracted a wide array of celebrities, including Gigi Hadid, Anna Wintour, and Zoey Deutch, all of whom contributed to the vibrant atmosphere. Guests were encouraged to wear designs by Michael Kors, which added a fashionable flair to the evening. The event was marked by standing ovations and a palpable sense of urgency to support the cause, as noted by attendees who frequently rose to applaud performances and speeches.
Conclusion and Future Plans
God’s Love We Deliver continues to expand its operations, announcing plans for a new distribution center in Sunset Park, Brooklyn, which is expected to enhance meal production capacity. The organization has delivered over 40 million meals since its inception, embodying a commitment to dignity and nourishment for those in need. The Golden Heart Awards not only celebrate individual contributions but also reflect the collective effort of a community dedicated to making a difference.
Verbatim Quotes
- “God’s Love reminds us that compassion is not passive. It isn’t pity. It’s a daily practice.” — Audra McDonald
- “To live in New York, you have to have heart,” — Anne Hathaway
- “— but as big as her talent is, her heart is truly bigger.” — Michael Kors on Audra McDonald
This event serves as a reminder of the power of philanthropy and the ongoing need for community support in addressing health-related challenges.
