New York, April 7, 2008 – The Food Bank for New York commemorated 25 years at its annual Can-Do Awards gala on Monday, where Gwyneth Paltrow and Helena Christensen were among those honored for their commitment to hunger relief.  While Gwyneth’s handsome husband Chris Martin was not at the bash, mom Blythe Danner and brother Jake Paltrow were at her table, which was the best in the house, in front of the stage. 

The Paltrows had a birds eye view of performances by Jill Hennessy – yes, she sings – and presenter Stephen Colbert, who had the crowd roaring with his introductory remarks: “Ladies, gentlemen, whatever other options there might be tonight – hermaphrodites, bisexual vegans for a free Nepal, Michael Stipe – welcome everybody.” 

Chef Mario Batali boasted that he’s spent the last six months shacking up with Gwyneth in Spain - where they’ve been taping a show for PBS.  Batali also told us that the Oscar-winning actress didn’t need his advice in the kitchen – she was already an accomplished cook when he met her.

Christensen told us that her Peruvian-born mother has taught her to make a lot of great dishes, but she’s taking full advantage of mom’s visit to New York by getting her to cook meals for Helena and her son, Mingus.

Comic Susie Essman cracked jokes at Petra Nemcova’s expense during the live auction, and later told us she likes the supermodel. “But how could you not despise her?  She’s so gorgeous.  I have to pick on her – it’s my job.”