NEW YORK — Airbnb Founder and CEO Brian Chesky will be honored at the 1199SEIU Training and Employment Funds’ Basil Paterson Scholarship fundraiser on April 29, 2021, from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. The proceeds from the event benefit the scholarship program, which provides tuition and other supports to home care workers who are furthering their education to pursue technical or professional health care careers.

“During the height of the pandemic, Airbnb’s generosity helped provide 1199ers with the housing and childcare support needed to give them peace of mind as they fought to save lives,” said George Gresham, president of 1199SEIU, which represents healthcare workers in New York, Massachusetts, New Jersey, Maryland, Florida, and the District of Columbia. “We are grateful to Brian Chesky and Airbnb for recognizing our members and their work to help heal our nation.”

During the pandemic, Chesky and Airbnb partnered with 1199SEIU and provided housing for hundreds of 1199SEIU members serving on the frontlines of the COVID-19 crisis. The accommodations were provided across New York, New Jersey, Washington D.C. Massachusetts, Maryland and Florida. Airbnb also committed more than $250,000 to aid healthcare workers who needed childcare services at the height of the pandemic.

The partnership with 1199SEIU was part of Airbnb’s Frontline stays program, which allowed hosts to open their homes to those on the front lines of the COVID-19 pandemic.

“During the pandemic, home care workers risked their own health to provide essential care to their clients,” said Training and Employment Funds Executive Director Sandi Vito. “They’re everyday heroes who have earned the support of the Basil Paterson Scholarship Fund.”