A shout-out for Vancouver during a star-studded virtual concert for vulnerable youth was the personal highlight for Covenant House Vancouver’s Kristy Hayter.

Hayter said she found the May 18 fundraising concert “very inspiring” and offered special appreciation for Canadian comedian Martin Short, who mentioned Covenant House Vancouver in his segment before introducing Canadian singer/songwriter Deborah Cox who performed A New Life.

“It was incredibly moving to hear the stories of hope and triumph from the youth of Covenant House,” said Hayter.

Comedian Martin Short gave a shout-out to Covenant House Vancouver during his segment on the virtual concert A Night Of Covenant House Stars. 

More than 50 musicians and Broadway stars teamed up for A Night Of Covenant House Stars to benefit Covenant House’s work providing care and support to homeless and trafficked young people in 31 cities across six countries.

Among the stars participating were Jon Bon Jovi, Dolly Parton, Meryl Streep, and Diane Keaton.

Covenant House International organized the event, which benefits local shelters like Covenant House Vancouver. Last year’s event, titled A Night of Broadway Stars, brought in nearly $2 million in donations.

Although no totals are available for this year, Covenant House said more than 5 million people viewed the concert, which can be viewed on Prime Video, Facebook, YouTube, Twitch, and the new streaming service Broadway On Demand.

Donations to Covenant House Vancouver are being matched until July 1, up to $100,000, by the Kitty Heller Memorial Fund held at the Vancouver Foundation. Donations made before July 1, up to $100,000, will be matched to help vulnerable youth.

Canadian Covenant House locations shown during A Night Of Covenant House Stars.