‘Home Is Where the Heart Is’

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 101 women and 85 children, according to Executive Director Julie Pellegrin. Another 380 survivors of abuse received services from the center’s non-residential program. The Haven also responded to 905 domestic violence and 600 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. Among the items up for grabs: a weekend get-away to a condo in Gulf Shores; a two night’s stay at the Beau Rivage with show tickets and dinner for two; overnight stays at the Steel Magnolias bed and breakfast and Monmouth Plantation in Natchez, Miss.; a framed Micholopolis print as well as artwork by local artists; facials, manicures, pedicures and massages; and special wines.

The winner of a special raffle package will get a charter fishing trip for four; duck hunting trip for two; LSU football getaway to the Alabama game and more.

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