An event so popular and established that tickets almost all sold out before they were even printed this year.
The 15th annual Sweet Smiles Society’s Valentine’s for Mexico Gala goes Friday, March 15 at The Prestige Vernon Lodge.
But unless you secured a ticket already with founder and organizer Barrita Durward, you won’t be smiling at the event.
Durward, who owns Cotton’s Chocolates in downtown Vernon, started the fundraiser and Sweet Smiles Society to support a Mexican orphanage she helped build.
“The children of City of Angels orphanage have been rescued from horribly abusive situations and because of your kindness and continued support, Sweet Smiles Society has been able to help build a safe, loving and healthy environment to these once forgotten angels,” said Durward.
The event has has become such a success that it now raises funds for four separate projects.
This year’s funds will purchase cement, mortar and materials needed to build a power pole, needed to connec the fifth home to electricity and complete construction on an addition to the fifth house of the Family Preservation-Orphanage Prevention project in Hualtulco, Mex.
Funds will also replace mattresses (including 18 crib mattresses), kitchen appliances, five washing machines and four gas-powered generators for two orphanages in Cuba and Cozumel.
The new Community Meal program will also benefit and continue in Columbia for the hurting and homeless.
“Many youth, disabled individuals, seniors and single mothers are living in extreme povery and need some help,” said Durward. “This program is about giving those people in need a hand up, not a hand out.”
Construction on a second transition house will also be supported at the City of Angels.
“This transition home will allow an additional 10 of the older rescued children to stay on campus after they turn 18 years old, as they learn the skills needed to transition into living on their own.”
These projects are supported through ticket sales, as well as the sale of an array of silent auction items, which can still be donated by calling Durward at 778-212-2438 or emailing cottonschocolates@shaw.ca.
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