The Housing Authority of the City of Elizabeth (HACE) Foundation hosted its fourth annual scholarship gala, “Sneaker Ball: Hometown Heroes – Lace Up to Lift Up,” on May 1 in Edison. The event brought together community leaders, advocates, and partner organizations to recognize local heroes and raise funds for scholarships supporting students pursuing higher education and career training.
Attendees, including Lt. Gov. Dale Caldwell, wore formal attire paired with sneakers to embrace the theme’s message of unity and forward movement. Proceeds from the gala support HACE Foundation’s mission to advance educational initiatives such as college prep programs, college tours, and annual scholarship opportunities.
Curtis Myers Jr., HACE Deputy Director, said, “Each one of our honorees is truly deserving to be called a hometown hero. Each one has positively impacted the City of Elizabeth with their leadership, dedication, and service.”
The 2026 Hometown Hero Honorees included the Elizabethport Presbyterian Center for providing youth development and social services; Antoine Nelson for his work guiding young men through leadership initiatives; Elmora Youth Little League for fostering teamwork among young athletes; and Curtis Myers Sr., recognized for mentoring generations of athletes.
This year’s foundation awarded $2,000 merit- and need-based scholarships to students attending two- or four-year colleges or trade schools. Scholarship recipients included Samiyah Coleman (Union College of Union County), Cheyenne Cora (Temple University), Naomi Gray (Rider University), Natasha Martinez (Carnegie Mellon University), and Devone Williamson (Morgan State University). Naomi Gray said, “I’m so grateful to have a community like the Elizabeth Housing Authority supporting me and believing in my future. This scholarship means so much to me—not only because of the financial support but because it reminds me that there are people who truly advocate for my dreams and encourage me to keep pursuing them.”
Individual and corporate contributions remain welcome through www.hacenj.com as the foundation continues its mission throughout the year.
