Sanford fundraiser aims to support women exiting homelessness and prison
The Light the Way Gala on November 7 will raise funds for housing, job training, and reentry programs in Seminole County.
By Daniela Ortega ·
A fundraising event scheduled for Saturday, November 7, will seek to support women in Seminole County who are rebuilding their lives after facing homelessness or incarceration. The 4th Annual Light the Way Gala is set to run from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. at 1711 S Orange Blvd in Sanford.
Natalee King, a U.S. Air Force veteran and Gold Star widow, will deliver the keynote address. King describes her background as including profound loss and addiction, and she now works as a recovery advocate and author. She will speak about how she found stability through recovery. Ciara Estrada, an alumna of the ministry, will also share her personal experience with the organization. The event will feature stories from other former participants as well.
Funds raised at the gala will go toward three specific initiatives. The first is Bridge Housing, a three-phase program that provides safe temporary living spaces for women. This program includes skills training and job placement assistance. The second is the Angels Second Chance Boutique, a thrift store and small food pantry that serves the community and supports the ministry. The third is Angels On The Inside, a curriculum designed to prepare incarcerated women for a successful return to society.
Local data indicates that homelessness in Seminole County has risen sharply in recent years. Organizers note that the need for these services is increasing. Tickets for the event are priced at $100 for individuals and $200 for couples. Tables for groups of eight to ten guests start at $1,000.
Every ticket purchase includes on-site parking, dinner, and dessert. The event uses the Zeffy platform for fundraising, meaning 100% of the ticket price goes directly to the mission. Attendees who cannot attend in person may add a donation through the same online page. Seats are limited, and the event is less than two weeks away.
The organization cites the biblical verse Acts 20:35, which states, "It is more blessed to give than to receive." This verse appears on the event materials alongside the call for attendees to bring friends, small groups, or teams to the gathering in Sanford.
