A CHARITY ball will raise much-needed funds for the homeless and the less fortunate in Ballarat later this month.Now in its fourth year, the black tie event, hosted by the On Track Foundation, will raise money to help fund the Soup Bus and create education opportunities for disadvantaged youth.The event has gained support from several organisations across Ballarat, including the University of Ballarat, which has supplied a venue for the ball and staff to help with the night."The past three years have really been about educating the public," homelessness advocate Craig Schepis said."This year, it's a little more tangible."It's also a feel good year to look at some of the things we have achieved so far, including the Soup Bus and the creation of scholarships for disadvantaged youth at Loreto College and St Patrick's College."The Soup Bus operates in front of the Civic Hall five-nights-a-week and costs about $30,000 a year to run.Mr Schepis said the bus served about 75 people each night.University of Ballarat director of accommodation and hospitality services, Colin Marshall, said the university was keen to support the worthy cause."A number of UB staff volunteer on the soup bus, and the charity event presented an opportunity for the university to extend its support," he said.Students from five Ballarat secondary schools will hone their culinary skills by volunteering their services at the ball, and trainee hospitality students will greet guests on the night.Tickets cost $110 each and can be purchased from Majestix on 5333 5888 or from the Caro Centre at UB on 5327 9490.This includes pre-event drinks and dinner.