Whatever is raised under the white tent at this Saturday’s Auction Napa Valley is practically a moot point to local charities.

At least this year.

In 2007 the Napa Valley Vintners made a $25 million pledge to the community that for the next five years, the auction would distribute a minimum of $5 million to charities.

This is year five and later in the summer vintners will regroup to decide next steps, according to Terry Hall, who heads public relations for the vintners’ association.

With local charities depending on auction dollars, a recession-proof strategy is ingenious.

Auction Napa Valley benefits local health, children’s and housing organizations, including Community Health Clinic Ole, Boys & Girls Clubs and Napa Valley Community Housing.