[dropcap]N[/dropcap]eon clad revelers joined together under the glow of dark lights in donating to a worthy cause at the inaugural Neon Club Extravaganza in Buda Saturday.

The benefit, which was held as a fundraiser for the Hays County Food Bank, was a collaborative effort by Danny Payne, owner of Nate’s Bar, and Jayna Love, a local realtor.

“Jayna has been an ambassador for Nate’s since we opened a year ago in May,” said Payne. “We were talking one day and decided to co-host a fun party for a good cause.“

The inaugural Neon Club Extravaganza brought in donations and participants from all over the county. (photo by Timothy Stuckey)

A total of 453 pounds of food was collected and $1,500 was donated during the event. According to Love, these donations will help provide 7,500 meals for those in need.

Since its opening, Nate’s has hosted a number of benefits including Holly’s Hope Animal Rescue and Austin’s Angels. Payne said they always plan on giving back to the community by hosting fundraisers, events and parties.

Love said this was an attempt to give back to a community that has helped her so much.

In fact, the desire to give back to the community is an important focus for her business. Love established a giving goal of $25,000 for 2017.

While this was her first charitable collaboration with Nate’s bar, Love has been donating to various functions and causes in the area for some time.

Love has hosted two “Share the Love” events to provide food for those need, and has sponsored “Drive a Senior,” a service designed to drive seniors to various locations.

She also was the largest donor for Elm Grove Elementary’s library by helping to acquire much needed books, tables and computers.

Love has also made contributions to several Hays CISD campuses. 

“I’ve never been able to give back in this capacity.” said Love.

Love said her own time experience as a child of a single parent working two jobs and struggling to make ends meet was a major influence for the event.

“To be able to come full circle and help other families facing this situation warms my heart,” Love said. “ I am beyond grateful to the city of Buda and to the support that has been shown tonight,” Homes said. “Thank you from the bottom of my heart for giving food to people who need it.