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The Rev. Dr. Christopher Eason and Carolyn Eason, along with Cassandra Williams and their Zion Southampton AMEZ church family, hosted an evening of giving and community support on Saturday, March 2, known as a Sweetheart Sneaker Ball.

A Heart of Gold Shelter news release highlighted how the event benefited the shelter.

“We are deeply honored and blessed by their generosity,” shelter officials stated. “Heart of Gold Shelter was presented with boxes of clothes and shoes for the women we serve, a heartfelt donation that will provide comfort and dignity to those rebuilding their lives.”

Since its founding in 2000, the Courtland-based Heart of Gold Shelter has supported more than 1,039 women, and last year alone, the shelter served 201 women through life-changing services, Clothed by Gold, Pampering with Compassion, and Emergency Hotel Stays.

“We are truly grateful for this outpouring of love and support,” Heart of Gold Shelter founder LaRhonda Mabry said. “Donations like this empower us to continue our mission of providing safety, healing and hope to survivors of domestic violence.”

Domestic violence remains a serious issue impacting individuals and families across local communities. The shelter’s leaders emphasize the power of awareness, support and action, urging the following: “Together, we can break the silence and make a lasting difference in the lives of survivors.”

“If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence, help is available,” officials stated.

Contact the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-787-3224.

For more information about Heart of Gold Shelter and ways to support its mission, visit www.heartofgoldshelter.org or email contact@heartofgoldshelter.org.

Shelter officials issued a heartfelt thank you to Zion Southampton AMEZ and everyone who made the Sweetheart Sneaker Ball event possible. 

“Together, we are building a safer, more compassionate community,” officials stated.