The Pinellas County nonprofit serves nearly 17,000 women and children annually through its outreach center and receives approximately 4,000 calls annually with requests for assistance
PINELLAS COUNTY, Fla. (Sept. 27, 2021) – Hope Villages of America, is hosting its 20th annual Luncheon to raise funds for the silent victims of domestic violence in Pinellas County. The event will honor those that have survived domestic violence and the generous and compassionate supporters who provide help and hope to those that are victims—and survivors—of domestic abuse.
“Unfortunately, our county is on one of the saddest top 10 lists: we are ranked sixth or seventh in the state for the numbers of reported domestic violence incidents,” said President and CEO Kirk Ray Smith. “Our hotline receives more than 4,000 calls annually with requests for assistance. The Haven provides safety, security, emergency shelter and support for approximately 300 women and children each year. We also serve nearly 17,000 women and children annually through our outreach center.”
Hope Villages of America will host the luncheon at Central Park Performing Arts Center at 105 Central Park Drive in Largo on Friday, October 1, 2021. Donations raised from the luncheon will go on to support the nonprofit’s many free and confidential services through its emergency safe house and outreach center. The 20th Annual Faces of Domestic Violence Luncheon is presented by philanthropically focused businesses and community members. Presenting sponsor Siracusa Staffing and Leasing is joined by fellow sponsors BayCare, Be Local and Harbor Bluffs Living Magazine, James K. Hafke Plumbing, Party Pirates on the Rocks, Pinellas County Sheriff’s Office, Jenergy Air Services, Island Way Pools, Ditek Surge Protection, First Financial Guarantee, Coastal Market 607 and Harry and Sandy Jamieson.
“It’s important to remember that this could be you, your sister or mother at any point in time,” said Smith. “Help is essential to their survival and for them to thrive later in life. It’s through events like this luncheon that our organization and staff can continue to alleviate the need of our community.”
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About Hope Villages of America: Established in 1967 is a registered 501(c)(3) organization that addresses the needs of the hungry, homeless and victims of domestic violence in Pinellas County. This mission is advanced through three distinct but integrated programs: Food Distribution & Basic Needs, Homeless Prevention Project & Housing Stability and Abuse Services. These programs operate in more than 60,000 square feet of service space and serve more than 130,000 participants annually throughout Pinellas County. In 2019 the nonprofit was awarded GuideStar’s Gold Seal of Transparency for the second year in a row and the Tampa Bay Beaches Chamber of Commerce Biggest Community Impact award. For more information, visit hopevillagesofamerica.org or call 727-584-3528.