The Windermere Foundation will host its annual fundraiser this week to help families in crisis.
The fundraiser is 7:30 p.m. Friday, Oct. 10 at the Oak Harbor Elks Lodge.
A raffle will be followed by live music provided by Johnny “Bulldog” Tristao of Creedence Clearwater Revisited.
A cash bar will be open and finger food available.
Proceeds from the event go to local organizations such as the Opportunity Council, North Whidbey Help House and other shelters and charities that help homeless and low-income families.
“Crisis comes in many ways and for families with children, becoming homeless is one of the most devastating,” said Lisa Clark, director of the Island County Opportunity Council.
Clark said in 2013 Opportunity Council sheltered 29 homeless families and that the Windermere Foundation has been a “godsend” in helping to meet the needs and providing services — especially to children.
“Whether it is new coats and backpacks or the sponsorship of a shelter unit, Windermere comes through when there are no other options,” Clark said.
Foundation representative Annie Cash said that for the past 25 years the Windermere Foundation has donated a portion of the proceeds from every home purchased or sold toward supporting low-income and homeless families.
“Since 2007, the Oak Harbor Windermere alone has invested over $50,000 solely into our community,” Cash said.
“It is our privilege to provide another avenue of assistance for local families in crisis.”
Each year the foundation purchases new winter coats, socks, hats and gloves for each child living in Marjie’s House, a local women and children’s shelter, Cash said.
Approximately $2,000 is contributed to the Opportunity Council, helping nearly 350 kids with new school supplies; new underwear for all ages is provided to the Oak Harbor School District homeless liaison; donations are made to the North Whidbey Help House; and the North Whidbey Medical Safety Net has received $1,500 from the Windermere Foundation.
For more information or to purchase tickets for the event, call 360-675-5953.
