Sojourner House Masquerade Ball raises $50K

PROVIDENCE – The Sojourner House Masquerade Ball has raised more than $50,000 to support survivors of domestic violence in Rhode Island.
Sojourner House, a comprehensive antiviolence agency serving the Providence and northern Rhode Island region, raised the funds on Nov. 13 at its fifth annual Masquerade Ball held at the Providence Biltmore Hotel.
“Our annual Masquerade Ball has quickly become a highlight of the philanthropic community here in Rhode Island, and we are once again fortunate to have the generous support of the community as this year’s event exceeded our expectations,” said Sojourner House Executive Director Vanessa Volz.
“With the visibility on domestic violence issues at the forefront of the national collective conscience, now is the time for the entire community, both here in Rhode Island and around the country, to stand united against such violence, and I think our local community spoke in a single united front through this event,” she added.
Known for transporting guests back to eras of the past, the annual masquerade ball this year brought participants to the 1770s French court as they were greeted by the royal couple, Marie Antoinette and King Louis XVI. Entertainment included period-style soiree specialists Chifferobe, who brought Miss Wensday and The Cotillions. Rhode Island vintage dance troupe The TropiGals also performed.
All three rooms atop the Biltmore were packed with supporters representing private individuals as well as Rhode Island businesses, including Amica Insurance and Macy’s. Emcee LuLu Locks, with special guest Miss Kitty Litter, together brought in over $10,000 in donations after Volz spoke about the agency’s work in helping the clients.
“Domestic violence is a daily occurrence throughout our country,” said Providence Mayor Jorge Elorza. “Here in Providence, we are lucky to have such a dedicated resource to help women, men, and their children escape the cycles of violence that unfortunately are so prevalent in our society.”
The funds raised will be used to support Sojourner House’s Drop-in Resource Center, transitional housing program and emergency Safe House for victims of relationship abuse.
Sojourner House offers helpline support and advocacy, youth programs for children who witness violence, HIV testing and counseling, violence prevention education and empowerment groups.