‘Home Is Where The Heart Is’ benefits abuse victims

Violence in the home, for most of us, is a foreign concept. But to local victims of abuse, having The Haven is a godsend.

On April 5, civic-minded residents can lend support to The Haven at its 10th annual Spring Gala, themed “Home Is Where the Heart Is.” It will be held at the Houma-Terrebonne Civic Center, beginning at 6:30 p.m.

Over 40 local chefs and restaurants will provide tantalizing dishes for the tasting. And Todd Adams, Billy Stark and Dr. Lawrence Breaux & Friends will entertain.

Tickets to the annual fundraiser are $100 per couple, or $50 per person. All monies benefit the work of The Haven.

The Houma center provides free sheltering and counseling services to women and children who are victims of domestic abuse or rape.

Last year, The Haven provided shelter to 160 women and children, according to Executive Director Julie Pellegrin. Another 514 survivors of abuse received services from the center’s non-residential program. The Haven also responded to 921 domestic violence and 341 sexual assault crisis calls.

“As people become more and more aware that services are available and that you don’t have to live that way, they’re seeking help,” Pellegrin said. The biggest challenge for The Haven is having the manpower and space to meet the demand.

And that, Pellegrin explained, is why the gala is so essential. “This helps us offset any money we’re not able to secure through grants to remain operational,” she said.

In addition to the food tasting, a silent auction is being held.

For more information about the event or The Haven, call (985) 872-0757.