Hundreds of people gathered Saturday morning at Lingleville’s Bella Vita Ranch for the second annual Cross Timbers Family Services Better Beginnings Brunch, supporting the organization whose mission is to enhance safety and justice by preventing domestic violence, sexual assault, and other violent crimes in our community through empowerment, advocacy, awareness, and action for social change.
CTFS Executive Director Laura Gambino reported that attendance nearly doubled from last year (220 from 115 in 2021) and proceeds likely doubled after expenses.
Among those attending were representatives from local law agencies with whom CTFS partners and many local businesses showing support.
Among the local law enforcement in attendance was Erath County Sheriff’s Office Investigator Rosye Holland, who was guest speaker and recently promoted to the Criminal Investigation Division.
“I am honored and thankful for the opportunity CTFS has given me to share my story,” said Holland. “Our victims would be alone and lost without such a great organization. Once we clear the scene and begin the paperwork, they are the ones who will continue contact and provide resources. Their role is crucial to the healing process for domestic violence victims.”
The event included a menu prepared by Greer’s and a guided craft by Pinspiration as well as a raffle and silent auction with many great donated items.
“We’re also celebrating 30 years as CTFS was founded in 1991,”said Gambino.
Gambino said the next Better Beginning Bunch is already planned for the last weekend in January 2023 and that the annual golf tournament is slated for Friday, June 24 in Glen Rose’s Squaw Valley with more information forthcoming.
Statistics for 2021 were also announced during the brunch. During 2021, CTFS served 232 total unduplicated clients (204 female and 28 male).
Ages
0-17: 52
18-60: 122 61+: 6
61+: 6
Residences
Stephenville: 169
Dublin: 24
Other:39
Victimizations
Sexual Assault: 24
Domestic Violence: 64
Child Abuse: 38
Physical Assault: 3
Human Trafficking: 4
Stalking/Harassment: 11
Secondary Victims: 47
Other Victimizations: 41
For more information on CTFS, visit crosstimbershelps.org.
They also have a 24/7 hotline at 866-934-4357.