Pop star KATY PERRY was honored for her charity work at a gala in her hometown on Friday night (16Nov12).

The I Kissed a Girl hitmaker was among the honourees at the Celebration of Dreams Gala in Santa Barbara, California, hosted by the Dream Foundation at the Bacara Resort & Spa.

Perry, who grew up in Santa Barbara, was presented with an award for her work raising awareness of the charity, which helps grant wishes for families —facing life-threatening illness.

American Idol producer Nigel Lythgoe was also honored at the event and other famous guests included Glee star Jane Lynch and actress Marcia Gay Harden.