‘Home is Where the Heart Is’ benefits abuse victims

On April 9, civic-minded residents can lend support to The Haven at its 12th 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.

More than 40 local chefs and restaurants will provide tantalizing dishes for the tasting, and Todd Adams and Lawrence Breaux & Friends will perform.

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 219 women and children, according to Executive Director Julie Pellegrin. Another 562 survivors of abuse received services from the center’s non-residential program. The Haven also responded to 157 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.