Hope filled the Hamptons, Saturday night when 500 people gathered for a St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital fundraiser hosted by FOX News National Security Expert, Columnist and Commentator, KT McFarland.

“In America, we are divided on everything, politics, education, etc.,” McFarland said. “But the one thing that does unite everyone is the children. We have seen such an amazing response [from the guests at the event]. People really care about the kids.”

Alan Roberts McFarland , JR and KT McFarland at the St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital fundraiser, Hope in the Hamptons. image: vanessa pinto

The event, appropriately named,  Hope in the Hamptons, featured gourmet sit-down farm fresh fare, cocktails, a performance by Billy Joel’s Broadway tribute band, The Movin’ Out Band and a live and silent auction. Auction items graciously donated included fashion accessories from Gucci, Rebecca Minkoff, and Barney’s New York, Jennifer Miller Jewelry, a 2016 Mazda MX-5 Miata Launch Edition and golfing experiences with Matt Lauer and the McFarlands.

“At St. Jude, there is no charge for families. They offer not only care but cures,” McFarland said.

Hamptons couples Sue and David Birdsall and Jennifer and Glenn Myles organized the event, which was held at the Water Mill home of the Birdsalls, whose grandson, Drew Birdsall, was diagnosed with leukemia just before his third birthday.

“These people at St. Jude are wonderful,” the Birdsalls said. “They are upbeat and just terrific. Our grandson is still in the [remedial] process but is doing well.”

Elizabeth Gregg and Jennifer Myles at the St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital fundraiser, Hope in the Hamptons. image: vanessa pinto

It was a family friend that recommended the Birdsalls go to St. Jude at the time of Drew’s diagnosis. Drew’s parents sold their home in Huntington and moved to Memphis to be close to the  St. Jude’s treatment campus. When the Myles learned about the diagnosis they developed a plan to have a fundraiser with live entertainment and from there it turned into a major event. Most of the people in attendance on Saturday, are friends with the Birdsall family or know someone who is.

“We have known the Birdsall family for a very long time. We love the fact that we can support the family, and St. Jude is such a great cause,” said event guest, Brooke Cracco. “Just seeing what they are able to provide for these families is invaluable. We are very happy to be here.”

Bill and Brook Cracco at the St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital fundraiser, Hope in the Hamptons. image: vanessa pinto

Hope in the Hamptons raised $500,000 for St. Jude and was considered such a success that there are already plans to host another fundraiser in the Hamptons next summer.

“Every dollar donated goes to the care and research at St. Jude,” said St. Jude Representative, Caitlin McFeely. “It costs 2 million dollars a day to keep the doors of St. Jude open. Families do not pay for food, transportation, or housing. The most important thing is to get the child cured. The worry of paying for [treatment] is nonexistent. That is the real miracle.”