I used to run a little golf-course restaurant (snack shack?)

Sit down with a few mortgage folks ... ask if you can bring coffee or some snacks or make it a lunch meeting. that $5 - $15 can go a long way. 

One guy at my station has been delivering his route for 10+ years and a few residents leave drinks, snacks and sometimes gifts in their mailbox for him.

I've used title companies all over Austin and so far I can't see much of a difference between them, apart from the snacks they offer.

People will go to the fridge quickly for drinks, snacks, etc...

Having sponsors help foot the bill keeps the costs down for attendees, which they will always appreciate.I go to a lot of real estate things, and they almost always have a sponsor, who brings in snacks or drinks and gives a little pitch at the beginning.

Seeing people eat nutritiously for me is fulfilling.

Go School has bright classrooms, provides snacks and beverages every class, has a bright updated classroom and energetic instructors. 

Snack/Drink machines?

Are you offering anything like a gift pack on arrival, snacks, dried herb pack, bottle of wine, etc., if so add that cost in.